Wines Corton-Charlemagne Domaine Ponsot - 2015

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Ponsot's Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2015 is an exceptional white Burgundy made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. This prestigious wine hails from one of the most renowned white wine appellations in the world, situated on the hallowed slopes of the Côte de Beaune. The formidable terroir, a mix of limestone and marl soils coupled with prime south-west-facing exposures, gives the wine its complex, mineral-driven character. The 2015 vintage benefitted from a warm, dry growing season, bestowing ripeness and concentration while retaining the essential tension and verve expected from a great Corton-Charlemagne. Careful vinification by Domaine Ponsot, employing natural yeast and minimal intervention, has preserved the purity of fruit and the inimitable sense of place.

The Burgundy region, and more specifically the Côte de Beaune, has long been celebrated for its world-class white wines. The continental climate, marked by warm summers and brisk, cool nights, allows Chardonnay grapes to ripen fully while maintaining vital acidity. The diversity of soils, rich with limestone and varying amounts of clay and marl, imparts the hallmark minerality and ageing potential found in top Grand Crus like Corton-Charlemagne. This area boasts a storied history, as vines have been cultivated here since Roman times, and the Grand Cru designation affirms its elite status.

Corton-Charlemagne's grandeur lends itself to equally noble food matches. Its depth and structure make it a splendid companion for fine seafood such as lobster or scallops in a light butter sauce. Poultry in creamy morel sauce, or veal with a lemon and caper emulsion, will harmonise beautifully. For a regional touch, try it with escargots à la bourguignonne or a delicate cheese like Comté affiné.

For the best tasting experience, serve this wine slightly chilled, ideally at 12-14°C. Consider allowing it to breathe in a large glass or decanting for an hour to release its full aromatic complexity. Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru can also benefit from further cellaring, rewarding patience with added layers and finesse.