Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru 2015

96 points, “This is a complex, waxy, pear and banana fruity white with creamy lees, bright acidity and considerable, restrained power.” – Tim Atkin

2015 was a warm Burgundy vintage playing into the hands of richer whites such as this. Faiveley’s Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru comes from four tiny plots, which increases the complexity massively. On top of which, the Faiveley family bought vineyards here in 1874, so they’ve really mastered the art over the last century and a half. Barrel fermented in oak barrels, of which half were new, this exceptional Chardonnay is matured for 18 months with regular stirring of the lees. Rich, powerful and oaky, this wine has a couple of decades in it to keep developing, but if you open it now you’ll discover lemon zest, spiced gingerbread, white flowers, green apple and something that’s creamy, oaty and comforting like porridge drizzled with honey. Serve alongside creamy sauces, buttery fish, grilled crustaceans, truffles or foie gras.

Domaine Faiveley receives top scores from the critics every year without fail. According to Burgundy expert Clive Coates: “This is classic, expert wine-making; currently second to none. Burgundy at its best.” With more than 120 hectares of vines across the region, they command an impressive array of Grands Crus. Not a domaine that’s happy to rest on its laurels, the quality keeps going up and up.