1997 Louis Latour Meursault Goutte d'Or

Louis Latour is one of Burgundy’s largest and most influential negociants and wine producers. The Latour family has been in the wine business in Burgundy since the 17th century when it started a maison and ran its own domaine for wine production. Today the maison is located in Beaune and the chateau is in Aloxe-Corton. Domaine Louis Latour has 71 acres of Grand Cru vineyards, making it the largest Grand Cru domaine in the Cote d’Or. The vineyards are located between Chambertin and Chevalier-Montrachet. In addition, Domaine Latour has another 50 acres of Premier Cru and other parcels. Domaine Louis Latour is best known for its Chardonnay, including the Grand Crus Corton-Charlemagne and Chevalier-Montrachet les Demoiselles. The Domaine also makes several Grand Cru reds, including the much-admired Corton-Grancey. Louis Latour owns 741 acres in Ardeche, in the south of France, where the firm produces modestly-priced Chardonnay.

Les Gouttes d’Or is a 13.2 acre Premier Cru vineyard in Meursault, in Burgundy’s Cote de Beaune. Its name translates to “drops of gold,” and many wine collectors believe the vineyard produces wines that live up to that name. Located high on a slope, it is about the same elevation as the best parcels of Les Perrieres and Les Charmes. Robert M. Parker Jr. has written that “Les Gouttes d’Or “is classic Meursault, with a flamboyant, nutty, obviously rich, plump bouquet, and a super abundance of fruit.”

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.