2003 Corton Charlemagne
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Tasting notes
The mineral and stone-scented 2003 Corton-Charlemagne (white) is medium-bodied and boasts a sappy personality. Tangy minerals are intermingled with pears in its well-detailed yet short personality. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802; Vincent Girardin also bottles some of these same wines under the Baron de la Charriere label, imported by Eric Solomon European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565
Critic scores
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Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Pierre Rovani
More reviews and scores
(14. 2% alcohol) Pure, expressive aromas of apple, cold steel, minerals and white flowers. Superconcentrated, juicy and penetrating, with brisk fruit enlivened by strong spicy character. Finishes very long, steely and spicy. This was the only 2003 white wine that Girardin did not acidify, but he blocked a portion of the malolactic fermentation to preserve freshness. Corton-Charlemagne was a very successful site in 2003, noted Girardin, with much less drought influence. "The fruit was very ripe, but with very good material and natural acidity," he explained, "perhaps closest in style and quality to 2002. "