A mature and elegant white Burgundy, showing remarkable freshness for a wine of over two decades. Straw-gold in color, the nose is lifted with tropical and exotic fruits, subtle toasty oak, and hints of mint and white minerals. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, with a luxurious richness, fine minerality, and a long, vibrant finish. Complex layers of vanilla, spice, and a touch of toasted oak add depth without overpowering the bright, precise character. This is a refined, full-of-energy wine, perfectly suited to shellfish, lobster, foie gras, or mature cheeses.

Decanter | D 100
Published: Feb 1, 2021

Despite its two decades of age, the 1999 remains straw coloured and immediately fresh on the nose. Luxurious richness for which Corton-Charlemagne is known is front and center. Mint-like herbal notes and a firm mineral element add dazzle in the finish. Again, like the 1989, it’s both refined, robust and full of energy. In my experience, it’s been at its peak for at least a decade and shows no sign of fading. Although quality and quantity usually do not go together, Latour produced about 15% more in 1999 than their 40-year annual average of 48,000 bottles.

The Wine Advocate | RP 90-91
Published: Feb 28, 2001

The 1999 Corton-Charlemagne offers mineral and stone aromas. Medium-bodied, fat, and wide, yet elegant, it is a well-balanced, austere wine. Minerals, white fruits, and toasty oak can be discerned in this wine's character as well as throughout its impressively long finish. Projected maturity: 2003-2009.

Louislatour.com

After the ravages of the phylloxera epidemic at the end of the 19th century the Latour family took the then, unusual decision to tear up the dead Aligoté and Pinot Noir vines, and replace them with Chardonnay. This decision lead them to create one of Burgundy's most celebrated white wines.
Today the Latour family owns 10.5 hectares which makes them the biggest owner in the appellation. The Latour's Corton-Charlemagne vineyards are located on a prime section of the Corton hillside where the south-easterly aspect ensures maximum exposure to the sun. The fruit is harvested as late as possible to guarantee maximum ripeness.

Vinification & Ageing
Fermentation
Traditional in oak barrels with complete malolactic fermentation
Ageing
8 to 10 months ageing in oak barrels, 100% new
Barrels
Louis Latour cooperage, French oak, medium toasted
Wine tasting
Tasting Note
This opulent wine has an intense golden hue with a distinguished amber yellow core. A multi-dimensional wine, characterised by its abundance of tropical and exotic fruits. Its rich complexity is enhanced by its spicy vanilla and a powerful, toasty richness. It offers a restrained elegance now, but will develop into another classic from Corton-Charlemagne.
Food Pairing
Shellfish - lobster - foie gras - fish - mature cheeses.