Of relatively recent history, the domaine has risen to extraordinary prominence in the world of collectible wines, achieving stratospheric ratings in the guides and being hailed as one of Burgundy’s greatest promises. Respect for terroir is expressed through more than 20 years of biodynamic farming, initiated under Pascal Marchand and continued by Pierre Vincent (now at Domaine Leflaive), who guided the domaine toward more ethereal wines of delicacy and purity — a direction faithfully preserved today by Sylvie Poillot.
The domaine’s vineyard holdings are impressive, with a highlight on Clos Blanc de Vougeot, considered by Jasper Morris MW the finest white wine of the Côte de Nuits.

Domaine de la Vougeraie Charlemagne Grand Cru 2023

Burgundy, France

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Description

A truly imperial Grand Cru. From the legendary Montagne de Corton, Domaine de la Vougeraie Charlemagne 2023 is a high-altitude white of rare mineral expression, reflecting the pale, stony soils from which it is born. On the palate, it reveals a remarkable harmony between creaminess and firmness, with notes of ripe white apple, fine spices and a chiselled, chalky tension that gives it longevity. A cult wine with a millenary history, uniting complexity, structure and nobility.

Viticulture & Winemaking

• Farming: Organic since 1998 (Ecocert®), biodynamic since 2001
• Location: Corton, Côte de Beaune, Burgundy
• Parcels:
 – Le Charlemagne – 0.2183 ha, planted 1954/55, 1957/58, 1989/90
 – En Charlemagne – 0.2772 ha, planted 1953/54
• Exposure: Southeast to southwest, 250–320 m altitude
• Soils: Highly calcareous, rich in silica, limy, extremely stony (terre blanche)
• Plant material: 40% clonal selection, 60% massal selection
• Work: Horse ploughing, natural tisanes, biodynamic preparations 500 and 501
• Harvest: Manual on fruit and leaf days

Vinification

• Whole-cluster pneumatic pressing for 2h30
• 24h débourbage
• Alcoholic fermentation begins in stainless steel and finishes in oak

Ageing

• 16 months in barrel (20% new)
• +2 months in stainless steel
• Monthly bâtonnage until December
• No racking

Grape Variety & Technical Notes

• Grape: 100% Chardonnay
• Planting density: 10,000 vines/ha
• Average yield: 39 hL/ha

Food Pairing

Ideal with refined and noble dishes:

• Grilled lobster with clarified butter
• Sole meunière
• Mushroom ravioli with fresh cream
• Bresse chicken with white truffles
• Long-aged soft cheeses

Scores

94–96 points – Jasper Morris
“The bouquet is of great style. Ripe white apple, impeccably integrated wood, vibrant acidity that makes the wine dance on the finish. Impeccable length. Unmissable.”