Bonneau du Martray   Corton Charlemagne

2000 Corton-Charlemagne

By Bonneau du Martray

2000 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray, Burgundy, France

The turn of the new millennium heralded a bevy of climatic challenges across the Burgundian landscape, and yet it was also a time when the legendary 2000 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray grasped the complexity of its terroir to elucidate a narrative of finesse and balance rarely seen in such capricious years. In my decades of chronicling the character and evolution of Burgundy's storied vinous jewels, few can command the presence of this particular vintage—which, even now, remains vivacious and commanding in the glass.

 

Vintage Virtues: A Millennium Masterpiece

The year 2000 was not without its drama; a temperamental season which culminated in a harvest that was as much a race against time as it was an art form—a delicate pas de deux between nature's whims and the vintner's resolve. The Bonneau du Martray estate excelled, weaving these threads into a tapestry of concentrated fruit layered with a mineral edge that speaks directly to the Corton-Charlemagne's pedigree.

 

Profile of Perseverance: A Taste of Timelessness

Upon the palate, one does not merely taste; one experiences. The 2000 Corton-Charlemagne unravels itself slowly, majestically. Citrus zest entwines with almond cream, hints of baked apple and ripe Anjou pear accentuated by a whisper of oak—a manifestation of refinement in maturation. The wine's structure is a testament to its lineage; robust yet eloquent, with acidity like threadwork that keeps every nuance sharply tailored even two decades onward.

An investment in such a bottled chronicle promises more than monetary returns; it brings with it the custodianship of history—a segment of the rich tapestry that is Burgundy—interwoven into one's portfolio. It behooves aficionados and investors alike to consider how the charisma of such a vintage, coupled with the laudable craftsmanship evinced by Bonneau du Martray, merges to produce an investment piece as alluring as it is enduring.

In summation, while embellishing any assortment crafted for posterity or pleasure, the 2000 Corton-Charlemagne from Bonneau du Martray continues to sing an aerial hymn to Burgundy's high command over chardonnay. A symphony within itself, it is one of those rare currents which flows through both heart and hearth, leaving an indelible imprint upon both palate and portfolio.

Current market price

£4,730.00

12x75cl

Highest score

94

POP score

337.86

Scores and tasting notes

94

Shame on me! I vastly under-rated this estate's 2000 Corton-Charlemagne in my barrel assessment a year ago (originally scored 88-90). The finest wine I've ever tasted from this famed domaine, it reveals a rich nose of ripe pears, buttered hazelnuts, and minerals. Medium-bodied, lush, intense, and satin-textured, it has exceptional balance, refinement, and a stupendously long finish. While it is not the most powerful Corton-Charlemagne, it has superb focus, detail, and seamlessness. Toast, spices, pears, and ripe apples can be found throughout its complex character. If this wine continues to improve in the bottle as it did in the final months of elevage, it will be completely mind-boggling. Projected maturity: 2005-2016. My compliments to Jean-Charles le Bault de la Moriniere for the wonderful progress he's made at this estate since taking over. Importer: Diageo Chateau and Estate Wines Company, New York, NY; tel. (212) 572-7725

Pierre Rovani - The Wine Advocate, 22 April 2003

Vintage performance