Bonneau du Martray   Corton Charlemagne

2009 Corton-Charlemagne

By Bonneau du Martray

2009 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray, Burgundy

In the ever-evolving narrative of Burgundy's prestigious lineage, the 2009 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray speaks as a testament to Burgundy’s prowess in delivering white wines of unmatched complexity and depth. This particular vintage harmoniously encapsulates the terroir of Corton-Charlemagne, where chardonnay finds one of its most illustrious expressions.

 

The Distinctive Attribute of the 2009 Vintage

The 2009 growing season in Burgundy was one marked by relatively warm conditions, somewhat akin to the esteemed 2005 harvest. Esteemed collectors recognise that such vintages can yield wines with a robust character, distinctive vigour and surprising longevity. The 2009 Corton-Charlemagne expertly harnessed this warmth, translating it into a wine of great poise and intensity, proving once more the adaptability and resilience of Bonneau du Martray's exquisite vineyards.

 

A Vintage Shaped by Climate and Craftsmanship

The mastery of Bonneau du Martray's vigneron shines through in this 2009 offering. A superb balance between powerful ripe fruit notes and an engaging mineral streak is perceptible, as is a sophisticated use of oak which adds further breadth to the wine's already multifaceted palate. Tinges of honeycomb, grilled almonds, and lemon zest play alongside flinty undertones in a complex performance of aroma and flavour framed by precise acidity – keeping each sip vibrant and fresh despite the wine’s age.

 

An Investment-Worthy Expression

As an investment, the 2009 Corton-Charlemagne is a sterling exemplar. Its impressive structure and concentration predict a grandiose evolution still unfolding. Discerning investors with an appreciation for exquisite Burgundian whites will no doubt understand the rarity and potential growth in value that such a storied vintage conveys.

In essence, the 2009 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray remains a paragon among Burgundy whites. It stands as a beacon for the seasoned collector aware that within its golden hue lies not only an experience for the palate but also an appreciable asset for any well-curated collection.

Current market price

£3,780.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

270

Scores and tasting notes

94

Bonneau de Martray’s 2009 Corton-Charlemagne is quite a bit richer, deeper, and more voluptuous than the 2010 tasted alongside it. Ripe pears, apples, white flowers and crushed rocks are all woven together in an elegant style that is impossible to resist. This relatively fat, full-bodied wine needs time to fully emerge, but it is shaping up to be a beauty. Layers of fruit build to the intense, generous finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014+. Sometimes I wish Bonneau de Martray made more wines, as my tastings with Jean-Charles le Bault de la Moriniere are always much too brief. Readers will find wines of impeccable polish and class at this small domaine tucked in the hillsides of Pernand-Vergelesses. De la Moriniere told me that he hoped to make the red Corton once again available to the estate’s customers in the US, which is great news, although it hasn’t happened yet. According to de la Moriniere, 2009 was a year unlike any other he has seen for its consistent, uninterrupted good weather. The harvest started on September 9th. Yields came in at 39.4 hectoliters per hectare for the Corton-Charlemagne and 27.05 hectoliters per hectare for the Corton. The Corton-Charlemagne finished its malo in June 2010, while the Corton started its malo in May, 2010 and finished in August. Both of the 2009s were bottled in Spring 2011. By contrast, the 2010s were brought in beginning on September 23, after a year characterized by an irregular flowering that lowered yields and an equally variable summer with periods of rain and heat. Conditions improved markedly during the month of September. Yields of 30.50 hectoliters per hectare for the Corton-Charlemagne and 22 hectoliters per hectare for the Corton were the lowest ever recorded at the domaine with the exception of 2003. A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet, various American importers, including: Atlanta Wholesale Wines, Atlanta, GA; tel. (404) 696-9440; C’Est Vin, Arlington, VA; tel. (703) 243-3559, Scott Paul Wines, Oregon; tel. (503) 852-7300, Wines Unlimited, New Orleans, Louisiana; tel. (504) 897-0191

Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 August 2012

Vintage performance