Domaine Coche-Dury Meursault "les Chevalieres" 2008
(Burgundy, France) - [VM 91+]

The Coches farm almost nine hectares of vineyards on minuscule parcels over six communes: Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, Auxey-Duresses, Monthelie, and Volnay. Approximately half of their holdings are situated around their hometown of Meursault, with their parcels of Bourgogne surrounding the home and winery. Though they are best known for their Chardonnay, they also bottle six exquisite Pinot Noirs.

No clones of any kind are planted; an absolute rarity in Burgundy, where cold, humid winters, spontaneous springtime hail storms, and harvest rains all make farming a challenge. Once in the cellar, vinifications are long and traditional, with extended lees contact. This extra time on the lees prevents oxidation and works in tandem with the terrific freshness his grapes achieve. A good proportion of new wood is used, not to influence the taste of the wine, but rather to extend the cellar-aging potential of these pedigreed wines and to serve as a clean slate for perfect fruit.

Coche believes strongly that the white wines of Burgundy should have nerve, and his are never among the ripest or highest in alcohol of his colleagues. It is their vibrant acidity, often hidden in the opulence that helps them to age so successfully and predictably. Though their bottlings are extremely limited, any chance to taste the wines of Coche-Dury promises a rare glimpse into some of the greatest vineyard management and winemaking in the world.

Tasting Notes

Meursault Les Chevalires has an intense nose of toast, honey, and white flower aromas. Jean-Franois Coche-Dury, probably one of the best producers of white wines in the world, showcases the full extent of his talent with this formidably precise wine usual, as well as honey. Body and bouquet merge in a subtle harmony: all the graces under an inflexible nature and a remarkable concentration.

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