2008 Corton Charlemagne
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Tasting notes
The utterly profound 2008 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru is one of Jean-François Coche's great achievements—and though today its quality is obvious, it's interesting that Jean-François and his son Raphaël recall 2008 in its infancy as "rude, closed, austere and cold." The wine wafts from the glass with notes of green orchard fruit, white flowers, oatmeal, vanilla pod, iodine and a subtle framing of new oak. On the palate, it's full-bodied, layered and multidimensional, its bright line of structuring acidity running through an ample but tense core of satiny texture and extract. The finish is bright, chalky and interminable. For a wine that retains all the tension and cut of a cool vintage, this Corton-Charlemagne's amplitude and power are striking. "Classic in the best sense" is Coche's understated judgment; less temperate commentators might call it perfection.
Critic scores
Average Score
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
One of the most reticent wines of the evening, the 2008 Corton-Charlemagne is vibrant and intense, but it also comes across as a bit burly, rough around the edges and in need of cellaring. I very much like the wine’s explosive energy and overall intensity. There is plenty of the classic Coche crystalline vibrancy, along with real richness in the mid-palate that still needs time to fully emerge.
Amazing, and surprising, amount of richness on the nose. And then spread. Lovely lovely stuff – without being too tart, great blend of Corton richness and structure and acidity. All in balance. Still chewy on the end but promised beauty. Very impressive. (JR)
About the producer
Domaine Jean-François Coche-Dury is one of the most sought-after names in Burgundy, famed for producing some of the most expensive white wines in the world. The demand for these fiercely collected wines far outstrips supply.