AOC Corton Charlemagne Grand cru wines awarded at the Gilbert & Gaillard International Challenge

A.O.C./A.O.P.

This fifty or so hectare great growth extends westwards from Corton on the hill of the same name. Its climate sites straddle the villages of Aloxe-Corton, Ladoix and Pernand-Vergelesses. Corton-Charlemagne is the only wine area bearing the name of two emperors: Curtis d’Othon, hence the name Corton, and of course Charlemagne, who donated his vines to Saint-Andoche abbey in Saulieu in 775. Chardonnay thrives here on the limestone-rich soils, steep inclines facing south-west and north-east and a microclimate which ensures cooler temperatures. The appellation also embraces that of Charlemagne, which is no longer used. These white wines with their golden hue display complex fragrances of citrus peel, fresh almonds, cinnamon, walnut, exotic fruits, honey, dried fruit, spices (pepper). Corton-Charlemagne are lively, fresh, full, rich, unctuous wines with great length, intensity, body, complexity and elegance. They are slightly firm when young and require a few years to fully express their qualities. Try with lobster Americaine, fish in a cream sauce, some white meats and certain types of cheese (Munster and blue).

Grape varieties: Vins blancs secs : Chardonnay