Winemaker Notes
Les Charmes is regarded as the archetype of Meursault wines and represents the largest of the Meursault Premier Cru appellations, with 70% of the four plots owned located in Charmes Dessus. This well-balanced wine combines the richness of Charmes Dessous with the minerality and elegance of Charmes Dessus, offering a charming appearance, powerful and full-bodied structure, and a soft, lingering finish.
Professional Ratings
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Jasper Morris
A pretty lemon yellow. The soft warmth of Charmes is evident on the nose. One might say oaky but of course there is no new wood here. Significant power afterwards and then the acidity which is usually present chez Matrot. Good stuff. Drink from 2027-2036.
Barrel Sample: 91-94 -
Wine Spectator
Taut and reserved, hinting at apple, lemon cake, vanilla and mineral flavors. This is supple and well-knit courtesy of the vibrant acidity that drives the long aftertaste. Though subtle, this white is harmonious and complex. Best from 2026 through 2033. 100 cases imported.
One of the most popular and versatile white wine grapes, Chardonnay offers a wide range of flavors and styles depending on where it is grown and how it is made. While it tends to flourish in most environments, Chardonnay from its Burgundian homeland produces some of the most remarkable and longest lived examples. California produces both oaky, buttery styles and leaner, European-inspired wines. Somm Secret—The Burgundian subregion of Chablis, while typically using older oak barrels, produces a bright style similar to the unoaked style. Anyone who doesn't like oaky Chardonnay would likely enjoy Chablis.
Known to offer a magical balance of smoothness and freshness, Meursault's quality is hard to rival. The village lies in the middle of Côte de Beaune, just south of Volnay. Meursault is said to mean “mouse’s jump” because in the past the plots producing Pinot Noir and those producing Chardonnay were no more than a mouse’s jump from one another. Today the village is almost exclusively Chardonnay. A tiny bit of Pinot Noir is produced here with the best coming from Les Santenots on its northern side near Volnay.
While there are no Grands Crus, Meursault’s numerous acclaimed Premiers Crus can compete with any other top-notch white Burgundy. Some to know are Les Perrières, Les Genevrières, Les Charmes, Le Poruzot, Les Bouchères and Les Gouttes d’Or.
Meursault produces outstanding village level wines as well. In general great Premiers Crus and even village level Meursault (Chardonnay) have enticing aromas of lime peel, tropical fruit, crushed rocks, spice and hazelnut. On the palate there is a wonderful balance of brightness and a seductive length with flavors of white peach, pineapple and citrus.