Louis Latour : Corton-Charlemagne Grand cru 2018

Aromas of pear, orange oil, white flowers and toasted bread introduce the 2018 Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, a full-bodied, ample and round wine that's open-knit and gourmand. Demonstrative and giving, it's already accessible.

Despite the heat of the vintage and serious ripeness (14.5% alcohol), this is surprisingly elegant and nuanced. There is a pleasant lemony accent to the ripe tropical flavors tinged with hints of cream, butter, and spice. On the palate, the wine is dense but not lacking in freshness. Pleasant now, this will age well.

Open and aromatic with honeysuckle flowers, dried apples and mangoes, as well as white peaches and stone. Full-bodied, this grows slowly on the palate with an intense, powerful finish. Lots of cream, cooked apples, lemons and light oak at the very end. Tight and right. Try after 2023.

After a lovely summer in 2017, this vintage ticked all the boxes: a spring with regular rainfall, a hot summer without ever turning scorching, some green harvesting to curb yields, and attractive bunches. The colour is medium gold yet pronounced, and it captivates. The nose is very delicate, slightly buttery, highly elegant, with notes of small white flowers, orchard blossom, and mirabelle plum compote; after aeration, scents of fine pastry emerge, followed by a smoky, flinty attack. The palate is very refined, powdery, with gentle bitters, showing superb balance where acidity and minerality come together. Clearly one to keep.