2004 Louis Jadot Meursault Genevrieres

Maison Louis Jadot is one of Burgundy’s most respected negociants. Founded in 1859 by the Jadot family, the prestige and quality of the estate’s wines were well established in the 19th century. The family continued buying highly desirable vineyards in the 20th century. In 1985 the estate was sold to Rudy Kopf, Jadot’s American importer. Located in Beaune, the estate has 336 acres of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Gamay. Though all the maison’s wines are known for their high quality, signature wines are the Bonnes Mares, Chambertin-Close de Beze, Chevalier-Montrachet les Demoiselles, Corton-Charlemagne, Le Montrachet and Musigny. Pierre-Henry Gagey is president.

Les Genevrieres is 41-acre Premier Cru vineyard in Meursault, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. It is in the southern part of the appellation, and just to the north of Les Perrieres and Les Charmes. Burgundy writer Clive Coates says that “Genevrieres is an opulent, even exotic wine. It is rounder than Perrieres and if not fuller, then certainly lusher…Here flavors are muskier, and there can be an element of citrus.” Since Meursault lacks a Grand Cru, Meursault’s reputation for excellence is based on the Premier Crus, particularly the whites.

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.