Golden hues, creamy textures, and delicate vanilla and toasted nut notes are just a few of the many reasons why drinkers are so drawn to Meursault wine. Possibly Burgundy's greatest region for producing Chardonnay, this near-400-hectare appellation is home to stellar names like Coche-Dury, Drouhin, and Comtes Lafon. Let's discover the intricacies of Meursault wine, detailing its history, terroir, and the producers that have built the region.
Meursault Wine Region
The Meursault AOC sits in the heart of Côte de Beaune, forming Burgundy's 'golden triangle' of Chardonnay regions alongside Chassagne-Montrachet and Puligny-Montrachet. As the largest of the three appellations, Meursault has built a reputation as Burgundy's greatest Chardonnay appellation, thanks to its rich, limestone soils which provide ideal conditions for the grape. The hard Comblanchian limestone soils were first discovered by the monks of Cîteaux in the Middle Ages, dating back as early as 1098. However, Meursault was not formally classified as an appellation until July 31, 1937.
The appellation holds 391 hectares, all of which are Premier Cru or Village-level, making its historic rise even more atypical. Compared to its famous Montrachet neighbors, Chassagne and Puligny, Meursault does not contain any Grand Cru vineyards, resting on the quality of the 'big three' Premier Crus of the 19 total: Les Charmes, Genevrières, and Les Perrières.
Meursault Chardonnay Characteristics
Meursault Chardonnay displays a distinct acid-driven precision, cleanliness in style, and rich, creamy texture. The traditional style is heralded for a full-bodied profile, buttery, vanilla, and hazelnut notes, and stunning golden hues. Contemporary Meursault winemakers, however, have begun producing a more energetic, zesty style marked by subtle minerality and green-gold hues.
Meursault wines pair best with seafood and poultry in creamy sauces, complementing the aromatic intensity and acidity of the wines. Specific dishes like grilled lobster, crawfish, and king prawns have become favorites for Meursault wine lovers.
Meursault Burgundy: Renowned Producers
Meursault hosts some of Burgundy's greatest producers, with top domaines like Coche-Dury, Comtes Lafon, and Joseph Drouhin holding Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites throughout Burgundy.
Domaine Des Comtes Lafon
Domaine des Comtes Lafon holds vineyards in Meursault Charmes and Meursault Perrières, two of the appellation's most coveted sites. Led by celebrated winemaker Dominique Lafon, the domaine dates back to the early 19th century and has remained a stalwart in Burgundy, utilizing distinctive winemaking techniques that make it one of the region's most unique wines.
Domaine Coche-Dury
Domaine Coche-Dury is arguably Meursault's most well-known and prestigious producer. Founded in 1973, Coche-Dury crafts immaculate Chardonnays from Meursault Charmes and Meursault Perrières in extremely limited quantities, with bottles rarely seen on the open market. Described as elegant, balanced, mineral and acid-driven wines, Coche-Dury is simply a must-have for any serious wine collector.
Domaine Joseph Drouhin
Domaine Joseph Drouhin dates back to 1880 and holds an incredible 100 hectares in Burgundy and 225 hectares in Oregon, becoming a rare cross-continental winemaking success. Despite its heralded history, Drouhin fully came to fruition in the 1960s, due in large part to Robert Drouhin, a savvy businessman who acquired significant land in Meursault and Chablis, and spearheaded the domaine's venture into Oregon with the help of Robert Mondavi.
Consequently, Meursault Joseph Drouhin wines became a highly sought-after cuvée in Burgundy, known for its creamy textures, refined tannins, and elegance.
Add Meursault White Burgundy to Your Cellar
Meursault wine is an exceptional cellar choice for more than white Burgundy drinkers; it remains a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts of all types to experience a universally beloved style, and possibly the world's greatest Chardonnay. With bottles ranging from approachable Village wines to standout Premier Crus, our collection holds a bottle for every price point and palate. Discover our full range of in-stock Meursault wines today.
