From two parcels, one including the Domaine’s oldest vines planted in 1945, the 2019 Meursault Charmes 1er Cru was affected by frost. The quantity was so depleted that François Bitouzet blended the two parcels in Charmes-Dessus (top part) and Charmes-Dessous (bottom part) in the press for the first time. It has a well defined bouquet with pretty apple blossom, granite and light white chalky aromas. The palate is well balanced with good density and weight on the entry. There is a lot of concentration to this Charmes with an almost honeyed (both in taste and texture) finish that just shaves away some of its potential tension and precision. Still, I appreciate the spiciness on the finish, but it is one that I think will show best in its youth. Nine barrels produced.
Neal Martin for Vinous