The 2009 Corton-Charlemagne is striking. An expressive, open bouquet leads to expressive fruit in this large-scaled, impeccable Corton-Charlemagne. Hints of crushed rocks and slate appear on the mid-palate, propelling the wine towards a rich, explosive finish. The Corton-Charlemagne impresses for its dazzling purity and exceptional harmony. The oak is beautifully integrated. Anticipated maturity: 2016+. Jacques Lardiere and Frederic Barnier showed me a wide range of 2009s during my visit in late June, 2011. Many of the jewels among the 2009s are hidden in the villages level wines, which I highly encourage readers to check out. I also tasted a selection of 2008s. The 2008s are quite fat for the year. Yields were lower than in 2009. Lardiere made the decision to age the wines longer on their lees to give them more richness, which he felt was lacking because of the inconsistent, high acid vintage. As a result, these are fairly big 2008s.Importer: Kobrand Corp., Purchase, NY; tel. (914) 253-7756

This elegant wine is packed with peach and apple flavors. Intense, with excellent balance and poise, building on the palate to a long, lemon- and spice-filled aftertaste. Best from 2014 through 2025. 350 cases imported.??–BS??Region: France / Burgundy / Corton-Charlemagne Select to Add

Ripe lemony nose, Very rich, plump, and full-bodied, with typical power and mineral backbone, but ripe fruit dominates. Long.

A hugely rich, powerful Chardonnay, layering ripe fruit with a core of tannic structure, acidity, wood and huge depth of flavor. The wine is concentrated, with layers of fruit and textured acidity. Of course, it needs aging—7 years at least.——R.V.(4/1/2012)—— 96