Domaine Rapet Père & Fils, Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru, Burgundy, France (150cl.), 2024

Producer Profile

Situated in Pernand-Vergelesses, between the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune in Burgundy, Domaine Rapet produces exceptional wines from vineyards surrounding the prestigious hill of Corton.

Founded in 1765, this historic family estate is now led by Vincent Rapet, who crafts wines in a modern style that are both well-vinified and true to their terroir. These wines benefit from a few years of cellaring, and the various cuvées remain attractively priced. In short, Domaine Rapet is a dependable source for both red and white Burgundy wines.

Viticulture

Soils are carefully nurtured through classic ploughing and meticulous cultivation, while vigilant, seasonally adapted vineyard management keeps intervention to an absolute minimum. Every detail is considered, from disbudding and tying to targeted leaf thinning that maximises sunlight exposure at optimum ripeness. Yields are tightly controlled to ensure concentration and purity, allowing each parcel to express its identity with clarity. The result is a range of wines that combine authenticity, finesse and a true sense of place.

Winemaking

For its Corton‑Charlemagne Grand Cru, Domaine Rapet Père & Fils showcases the precision and pedigree of Chardonnay at its highest level. Grapes are harvested entirely by hand in small crates to preserve their pristine condition, then gently pressed to retain purity of fruit and finesse. Following a 24-hour cold settling, fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, around 30% of which are new, bringing subtle structure and complexity without overshadowing the terroir. The wine is matured on its fine lees with regular bâtonnage through to July, building texture, depth and aromatic richness, before bottling after 12 months. Every stage of the élevage is carefully controlled to highlight the hallmark tension, mineral drive and layered elegance of Corton‑Charlemagne, delivering a wine of both immediate appeal and impressive ageing potential.

Tasting Note

Impressive precision and lift, typical of this lofty site. The nose opens with aromas of white peach, citrus zest and crushed stone, layered with subtle hazelnut and a hint of struck flint. The palate is taut and mineral-driven, with bright acidity carrying flavours of lemon curd, orchard fruit and a gentle touch of oak. There is a fine balance between richness and tension, leading to a long, saline finish with lingering notes of chalk and toasted almond. A poised and age-worthy Grand Cru with real finesse.

Food matching

Classic match is butter-roasted turbot or sole, where the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness while complementing the delicate texture.