2012 Domaine des Croix Corton-Charlemagne

Domaine des Croix is partly owned and entirely operated by winemaker David Croix, also known for his winemaking tenure at Camille Giroud. David founded Domaine des Croix about a decade ago with investors. His first releases were 2005 Corton-Charlemagne, Bourgogne Rouge, Beaune and Beaune Premiers Crus. The domaine has been farmed organically since 2008. Wine Advocate has called David Croix “a talented winemaker who has carved a niche out for himself.” Vinous has noted that Croix makes wines in a “forward, fruit-driven style.”

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.