1997 Coche-Dury Corton-Charlemagne

Domaine Coche-Dury in Meursault, Burgundy, is renowned for its Corton-Charlemagne and Meursault-Perrieres. The 26.4 acres estate is owned by Jean-Francois Coche-Dury, who is one of Burgundy’s most respected producers. Vineyards are planted to Chardonnay, Aligote, Gamay and Pinot Noir. Though the estate is known for its white wines, it also makes a small amount of red wine. About 5,000 bottles of the two signature wines are made each year. Robert M. Parker Jr. has written that Jean-Francois Coche-Dury “produces some of the region’s longest-lived, most aromatically complex, and compellingly textured white wines.”

Corton-Charlemagne is a historic appellation for Grand Cru Chardonnay in the Cote de Beaune of Burgundy. The 129-acre vineyard falls within the boundaries of three communes, Aloxe-Corton, Pernand-Vergelesses and Ladoix-Serrigny. According to Burgundian historians, the vineyard is named for Charlemagne, the 8th century ruler who conquered most of western Europe. Charlemagne enjoyed the red wine of Corton, but as he grew older his wife disliked the red wine stains in his white beard, so Charlemagne had white grapes planted in Corton. Today only Chardonnay is allowed to be planted in Corton-Charlemagne, and it is one of Burgundy's most celebrated appellations for Grand Cru white wine. The largest land owners are Louis Latour, with 24 acres; Bonneau du Martray, with 23 acres; and Bouchard Pere et Fils, 9.5 acres.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.