2020 Domaine Georges Roumier Corton-Charlemagne

Georges Roumier et Fils is a 40-acre estate in Chambolle Musigny in Burgundy’s Cote de Nuits. Founded in 1924 by Georges Roumier, it is now run by the family’s second and third generation winemakers, father Jean-Marie and son Christophe. The wines produced include the Grand Crus Le Musigny, Bonnes-Mares and Corton-Charlemagne, as well as Premier Crus in Chambolle-Musigny, which are Les Amoureuses, Les Combettes, and Les Cras. The estate also has a monopole Premier Cru in Morey-Saint-Denis, which is Clos de la Bussiere. Robert M. Parker Jr. has noted that the domaine “is undoubtedly one of the finest sources of classic, long-lived red burgundies….All aspects of the estate’s winemaking are completely traditional.”

Corton-Charlemagne is a historic appellation for Grand Cru Chardonnay in the Cote de Beaune of Burgundy. The 129-acre vineyard falls within the boundaries of three communes, Aloxe-Corton, Pernand-Vergelesses and Ladoix-Serrigny. According to Burgundian historians, the vineyard is named for Charlemagne, the 8th century ruler who conquered most of western Europe. Charlemagne enjoyed the red wine of Corton, but as he grew older his wife disliked the red wine stains in his white beard, so Charlemagne had white grapes planted in Corton. Today only Chardonnay is allowed to be planted in Corton-Charlemagne, and it is one of Burgundy's most celebrated appellations for Grand Cru white wine. The largest land owners are Louis Latour, with 24 acres; Bonneau du Martray, with 23 acres; and Bouchard Pere et Fils, 9.5 acres.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.