Bonneau du Martray   Corton Charlemagne

1997 Corton-Charlemagne

By Bonneau du Martray

The 1997 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray, Burgundy, France

Amidst the legendary slopes of Burgundy lies the grand cru vineyards from which the eminent 1997 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray heralds. This particular vintage emerges as one of the stunning triumphs of the late 20th century, reflecting a year where winemakers deftly managed climatic challenges to craft whites of vivacity and commanding structure.

 

Vintage Distinction: A Testament of Time

The year 1997 offered up its unique set of climatic hurdles in Burgundy, resulting in wines with an agreeable interplay between ripeness and acidity—an alignment adding an alluring complexity to the profile of this age-worthy Corton-Charlemagne. Indeed, investors will take note that such vintages carry a particular cachet for their intriguing evolution in the bottle.

 

Investment Elegance: The Allure of Antiquity

Two and a half decades on, this chardonnay reflects a convergence of old-world winemaking prowess with the distinctive characteristics bestowed by a challenging growing season. The Bonneau du Martray signature is evident in this vintage's elegant decay, having mellowed into a stately composition. Notes of toasted hazelnuts alongside a rich tapestry of orchard fruits hint at a carefully preserved opulence underpinned by an enduring minerality.

For connoisseurs and collectors alike, the 1997 vintage allows one to appreciate not only the storied heritage of Bonneau du Martray but also represents a choice opportunity for wine investment. This is a poised orchestrator among Burgundian whites, with enough vitality left to command attention for years to come.

 

The Elegiac Complexity of Age

With the turn of the cork, one finds that time has gifted this 1997 Corton-Charlemagne with subtle layers ready to unfurl. The seductive fragrance alone suggests the practiced patience imbued in this wine, an illustrious forebear among its terroir-born kin. A wise investment for those enchanted by the nobility of aged Corton-Charlemagne; it remains a timeless testament to the intrepid spirit of 1997's harvest.

In sum, this 1997 vanguard from Bonneau du Martray not only embodies the soulful beauty of its birth year but also stands as an essential addition to any discerning investor's portfolio. Its narrative is one scribed in both history and cellar, offering an encompassing chronicle for Burgundy enthusiasts.

Current market price

£3,510.00

12x75cl

Highest score

89

POP score

390

Scores and tasting notes

89

The 1997 Corton-Charlemagne offers dense aromas of anise, spices, and nuts. On the palate it offers poached pears, tangy berries, minerals, and hazelnuts. This is a deep, extremely well-balanced wine that is presently slightly compressed in the finish. With cellaring, it should flesh out. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2009. Importer: Seagram Chateau & Estate Wines Company, New York, NY; tel (212) 572-7725.

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 20 April 2000

Vintage performance