Louis Latour Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru 2022 (JS99) - 750ml

Louis Latour Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2022 is a prestigious white wine from the Côte de Beaune sub-region of Aloxe-Corton in Burgundy, France, originating from the Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru vineyard. Crafted from 100% Chardonnay, this wine is produced by the historic Maison Louis Latour, established in 1797, renowned for its exceptional winemaking expertise and respect for terroir. The winery is the largest vineyard owner in the Corton-Charlemagne appellation, holding 10.5 hectares.

Wine Characteristics

• Region and Terroir: Corton-Charlemagne is situated on the prime slopes of the Corton hill, with southeast-facing vineyards that receive ample sunlight, ensuring optimal grape ripeness. The limestone-rich soil imparts a crisp minerality and refined structure to the wine.
• Winemaking Process: Grapes are hand-harvested late to ensure full ripeness. The wine is fermented in 100% new French oak barrels from Louis Latour’s own cooperage, undergoing complete malolactic fermentation, followed by 8 to 10 months of aging. This process adds rich oak aromas and a refined texture.
• Appearance and Aroma: The wine exhibits a bright pale yellow hue, with intense aromas of toasted bread, floral notes (notably honeysuckle), and vanilla, complemented by complex hints of fresh almonds, hazelnuts, and a subtle smokiness.
• Palate: Full-bodied and rounded, it offers flavors of yellow fruits, vanilla, and brioche, with a balanced structure, vibrant acidity, and a long finish marked by chalky minerality and delicate honeyed notes.
• Aging Potential: Drinkable now but best from 2025 onward, with a cellaring potential of 10-15 years or more, developing richer complexity over time.

Professional Ratings and Reviews

• James Suckling: 99 points, hailed as the finest Corton-Charlemagne of the 2022 vintage, praised for its “perfect integration of vanilla oak with a wide range of citrus and stone fruit aromas,” with a concentrated mid-palate and an exceptionally long, focused finish with intense chalky minerality.
• Burgundy Report (Bill Nanson): Notes initial subtle toasty aromas, evolving into broader citrus complexity, describing it as an impressive wine.
• Wine Spectator: 93 points, highlighting its blend of richness and elegance, with a remarkable balance of fruit and minerality.