1995 Corton Charlemagne

Roumier made a gorgeous Corton Charlemagne in 1995 which displays a fabulous nose of sweet vanillin, toasted oak and super-ripe fruits. The explosive palate bursts with tropical fruits (somewhat reminiscent of a top-of-the-line California Chardonnay in style) and is full-bodied, thick-textured and with excellent length. Normal production for this wine runs between 1200-1400 bottles per year. In 1995 only 882 were produced. Drink now-2006. This note is the result of tastings I did in Burgundy between January 7 and January 29. The harvest took place here on September 29 for the Corton-Charlemagne and between October 2 and 9 for the reds. Yields averaged 28 hectoliters/hectare. Overall, Roumier's 1995s are stunning wines. They have breathtaking ripeness of fruit, elegance, power and texture. Bravo! Importer: Chateau and Estate Wine Co., New York, NY; tel. (212) 572-7725

Quintessential Corton-Charlemagne nose nose combines peach, pear, pineapple, honey, coconut and vanilla. Honeyed and palate-staining; would be almost heavy were it not for the powerful acidity. Almost painfully structured. This very persistent wine has great aging potential, though Roumier says he prefers his '94 for its subtlety.