Being introduced to this wine at chez Leroux was a wonderful surprise. Note that this Grand Cru is not Corton-Charlemagne but rather Corton Blanc, another appellation on the Corton Hill for certain rare plots outside of Corton-Charlemagne. It’s a rarely seen appellation! In 2018, only 4.18 hectares were declared. Suffice to say many experienced Burgundy lovers have never tasted one. Leroux previously sourced Pinot from Les Grandes Lolières, but this is his first white. Downslope from Corton Le Rognet, the vineyard sits close to the village of Ladoix-Serrigny and faces due east where the soil below is very chalky—a real Chardonnay terroir.
This is an absolutely riveting white Burgundy with great energy, depth of fruit, punchy freshness and a long, earthy close. A portion of the wine was made in WineGlobes for extra precision and purity. The result is impressive. Leroux picked on September 3rd, at least a week before the proprietor picked his fruit. The vineyard has since been pulled out by the owner for replanting so this brilliant wine is now historic as well!