Louis Latour Corton Charlemagne 2020

Louis Latour is one of Burgundy’s most renowned and historic producers, with a legacy dating back to 1797. The family-run domaine, now in its eleventh generation, is known for its mastery of Chardonnay, particularly in Grand Cru vineyards such as Corton-Charlemagne. This legendary site, which once belonged to Emperor Charlemagne, is famous for producing some of the world’s most powerful and long-lived white wines. Louis Latour has been crafting wines from this esteemed terroir for over a century, consistently showcasing the vineyard’s ability to balance richness with precision.

The 2020 vintage in Burgundy was marked by warm conditions, leading to ripe fruit with excellent concentration. However, cool nights preserved acidity, resulting in a wine that is both generous and finely structured. Fermented and aged in French oak barrels (50% new) for 8–10 months, the wine gains complexity and depth while maintaining the purity of the Chardonnay grape.

Appearance: Brilliant pale gold with hints of green at the rim, indicating youth and vibrancy. The wine shows exceptional clarity, with a slightly viscous texture that clings to the glass, forming elegant, slow-falling tears. The surface reflects light beautifully, enhancing its luminous quality.

Aroma: Intensely aromatic, with notes of ripe citrus, white peach, and green apple. Hints of hazelnut, toasted brioche, and vanilla emerge from the oak influence, intertwined with flinty minerality. Subtle undertones of honeysuckle and lemon curd add further complexity.

Taste: Powerful yet refined, with a creamy, well-rounded texture. Bright acidity balances the richness of baked apple, Meyer lemon, and pear, while layers of almond, buttered toast, and wet stone unfold on the palate. The oak is seamlessly integrated, adding structure without overwhelming the fruit.

Finish: Exceptionally long and persistent, with lingering notes of citrus zest, toasted hazelnut, and a distinctive mineral edge. The finish is both rich and refreshing, suggesting further development with age.

Food Pairing: A perfect match for seared scallops with a beurre blanc sauce, lobster thermidor, or roast chicken with truffle butter. It also pairs beautifully with creamy mushroom dishes, aged Comté cheese, or even a delicate white fish in a citrus-infused sauce. The wine’s depth and acidity make it a versatile partner for rich yet elegant cuisine.