Wines Unspecified Domaine S Comtes Lafon - 2009

Viniou Reviews

Domaine des Comtes Lafon is a renowned name in Burgundy, particularly recognised for its exceptional white wines crafted from Chardonnay. The 2009 vintage stands as a testament to the estate’s dedication to excellence, offering wines of remarkable complexity and finesse. While the precise Premier Cru vineyard is not specified, Comtes Lafon's whites are typically sourced from revered terroirs in Meursault and Montrachet, known for their mineral-rich, limestone and marl soils. The 2009 vintage was generous, marked by a warm growing season that produced ripe, expressive fruit while retaining the balance and vitality essential to the domaine’s signature style. Traditional Burgundian vinification, including fermentation and ageing in oak barrels (a portion being new), lends breadth, subtle spice, and a creamy texture to the crystalline fruit and mineral backbone for which Lafon’s wines are famed.

Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune is a mosaic of small, meticulously tended parcels, producing some of the world’s most celebrated Chardonnay. The continental climate, with relatively cool nights, preserves the grapes’ natural acidity, even in warmer years like 2009. The region’s long and storied history of viticulture stretches back to Roman times, with monastic orders refining vineyard practices through the centuries. Today, estates like Domaine des Comtes Lafon represent the pinnacle of tradition and innovation, blending respect for terroir with precise winemaking.

For food pairings, a Premier Cru Burgundy white of this calibre calls for refined, subtly flavoured dishes. Classic pairings include roast poultry with a touch of cream, delicate fish such as turbot or sole, and fresh shellfish like scallops or lobster. Regional specialities, such as a vol-au-vent or quenelles de brochet, also work splendidly to highlight the wine’s nuanced minerality and richness. A well-aged Comtes Lafon Chardonnay will also beautifully complement earthy preparations featuring morels or truffles.

Serve this wine at 12-14°C to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and layered palate. Decanting for twenty to thirty minutes can allow the wine to open up, unveiling further depth and refinement that mark the true expression of a mature white Burgundy.