2021, Domaine de la Vougeraie, CHARLEMAGNE, Grand Cru

From the only producer to use the AP Charlemagne label, this shows a lovely citrussy nose with hints of mineral and hawthorn flowers. The texture is compact but not heavy; there is abundant acidity to balance the impressive level of extract, and an immensely satisfying finish. It is produced from two parcels totalling 0.5ha. One faces south on the Aloxe side, and one faces west on the Pernand side. The combination is compelling and should not be overlooked. 95 Charles Curtis MW, Decanter.

The 2021 Charlemagne Grand Cru comes from two parcels, the En Charlemagne lieu-dit picked a week after Le Charlemagne. This has one of my favourite noses from Vougeraie; it's quite refined and complex, more mineral-driven with hints of dried white flowers. The palate is well balanced with a tangy opening, fresh and crisp with a touch of bitter lemon and orange rind towards the finish. This should age well in bottle and conveys a sense of class. 93-95 Neal Martin, Vinous.

Glowing pale yellow. A slight reduction, this time more on the fruit than the wood. A lively fruit with good acidity and exceptional tension at the back, lively citrus, minerals wherever you look, and a long clean balanced finish. More minerals than flesh in 2021. **** 93-95 Jasper Morris MW.

2 vines – one week difference in harvesting – one Le Charlemagne, the other En Charlemagne. Now labelled since 2013 as ‘Charlemagne,’ the en and le assembled just before bottling. Still a hint of toast but the shape of this is very different – airy – impressive volume with a vibration of ripe citrus. Large scale, fresh, cool fruit – growing intensity that’s becoming more and more direct as you head through the middle flavours towards the finish. Such a super wine – dynamic and pure in the finish – bravo. Bill Nanson, Burgundy Report.

Drinking Window: 2027 - 2034