Wines Corton-Charlemagne Domaine Roulot - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Roulot’s Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2018 is a quintessential expression of Burgundy’s finest Chardonnay. From a celebrated vintage, this Grand Cru offers a complex and compelling profile. The wine’s pale gold colour hints at its youthful vibrancy. On the nose, it unfolds layers of ripe citrus, white peach, and apple blossom, seamlessly interwoven with nuances of toasted hazelnut, flinty minerality, and a touch of subtle spice from well-judged oak ageing. The palate is broad yet impeccably structured, delivering both power and finesse. You will notice a core of fresh orchard and stone fruits, underpinned by mouthwatering acidity and a tightly wound mineral backbone that extends to a long, saline finish. Domaine Roulot, renowned for their precision and elegance, crafts this wine using sustainable viticulture and meticulous, hands-off vinification, allowing the unique character of the Corton-Charlemagne terroir to shine through.

Corton-Charlemagne sits atop the hallowed slopes of the Côte de Beaune, a region revered for producing some of the world’s most illustrious white wines. The Grand Cru vineyards benefit from an ideal east-facing exposition and elevations that expose the vines to cool breezes, helping maintain high acidity and aromatic purity. The soils are a harmonious blend of limestone and marl, imparting a distinct minerality and tension to the wines. The region has a storied history, with vineyards cultivated since Roman times, and today, Corton-Charlemagne represents the pinnacle of Burgundian Chardonnay.

Such a majestic wine calls for equally refined food pairings. Classic matches include fine shellfish such as lobster or scallops, simply prepared to let the wine’s nuances shine. Roasted poultry with a cream or truffle sauce provides a luxurious complement, as do regional dishes like poulet de Bresse à la crème. Mature hard cheeses, especially Comté or aged Gruyère, also make excellent companions, drawing out the wine’s savoury depth.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru chilled but not too cold, ideally between 12-14°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will allow its complex aromas to unfold. This wine possesses excellent ageing potential; however, its vibrant fruit and mineral elegance can already be appreciated in its youth.