This 1999 Meursault Premier Cru from Domaine des Comtes Lafon is a benchmark expression of Chardonnay from the Côte de Beaune in Burgundy. The estate is renowned for meticulous vineyard management and an uncompromising approach to quality, with organic and biodynamic practices firmly in place. The wine is produced from old vines, cultivated on limestone-rich soils interlaced with marl, which imparts both mineral tension and depth. Fermentation and élevage are carried out in oak barrels, with a judicious use of new oak, lending a subtle toastiness without overwhelming the purity of fruit. Over two decades of bottle age have allowed this white Burgundy to evolve magnificently, bringing forth complex layers of honeyed citrus, roasted nuts, brioche, and flinty minerality, underpinned by a vibrant acidity and a textured, persistent finish.
Meursault sits in the heart of the Côte de Beaune, an area celebrated for its outstanding white wines. The region benefits from a continental climate with pronounced seasonal variations, allowing Chardonnay to ripen slowly and develop nuanced aromas. Soils here are predominantly argilo-calcareous (clay-limestone), which contribute to the unique expression of mineral freshness and powerful structure that distinguish Meursault from other Burgundian appellations. Historically, Meursault's wines have been celebrated for their capacity to age gracefully, and Comtes Lafon is widely regarded as one of the producers that best harnesses this potential.
For food pairings, the richness and complexity of a mature Meursault Premier Cru finds its match in refined dishes such as pan-fried scallops with beurre blanc, roast lobster with tarragon butter, or a creamy chicken with morels. Regional classics like escargots de Bourgogne or a well-aged Comté would make excellent companions, highlighting the wine’s savoury depth and nutty undertones.
To make the most of its bouquet and texture, serve this Meursault at 12-14°C. Allow it to breathe for thirty minutes in a large-bowled glass to fully reveal its layered aromas and finesse. This is a wine best appreciated slowly, savouring each evolving nuance.
