After the ravages of the phylloxera aphid at the end of the 19th century it was the Latour family that took the now-celebrated decision to tear up the dead Aligote and Pinot Noir vines and to replace them with Chardonnay. The vineyard of Corton-Charlemagne is situated in the prime area of the hillside of Corton where its south-easterly aspect ensures maximum exposure to the sun. The Corton-Charlemagne 2001 is a dazzling gold. The nose is loaded with intense aromas including candied bananas and subtle oak. The palate is full of youthful exuberance and notes of almonds, vanilla, oak and minerals. This is a huge, powerful, round Grand Cru that is still young but lingers deliciously (12 x 75 cl)
The winery of Corton-Grancey dates back to 1832 but it has only been since 1891, after the ruinous phylloxera crisis, that the Chateau and its purpose built cuverie has been the heart of Domaine Louis Latour. This particular wine is only produced in years when the Pinot Noir grapes reach perfect maturity. The vineyards from the following holdings are planted with vines with an average age of over 40 years. After being aged for 18 months in the cellars of Corton-Grancey, each cask is then meticulously tasted and appraised and, then, only the finest casks showing the best colour and bouquet and capacity to age will be blended to make the final wine of Chateau Corton-Grancey which only appears in exceptional years. Soil: Marl-based soil, limestone base. Vinification: Traditional open-vat fermentation at the Cuverie of Corton Grancey followed by 18 months in oak casks. (12 x 75 cl)