A Spectacular Bonneau du Martray Tasting Experience

I have had the privilege of attending an extraordinary online wine-tasting event organized by Decanter (during lockdown). The event was guided by none other than Thibault Jacquet, the manager of Bonneau du Martray, and Charles Curtis MW, the renowned author of “The Original Grands Crus of Burgundy.” Together, they took us on a journey through the essence of Burgundy’s terroir, showcasing six remarkable wines that left an indelible mark on my palate.

The focal point of the tasting was the illustrious Bonneau du Martray estate, celebrated for its iconic Corton-Charlemagne and Corton wines. These bottles are a testament to the harmonious convergence of grape, nature, and human expertise that captures the essence of a specific terroir, a moment in time, and a sense of place.

We embarked on this vinous adventure with four vintages of Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne, each with its own unique character and expression: 2019, 2017, 2015, and 2009. These exceptional white Burgundies exhibited the epitome of the Corton-Charlemagne terroir, and each was a masterpiece in its own right.

My personal favorite of the evening was the 2015 Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne. It was nothing short of outstanding. This vintage displayed a mesmerizing harmony of flavors, with its vibrant acidity, rich minerality, and an intricate tapestry of citrus, orchard fruits, and a hint of toasted hazelnuts. The 2015 Corton-Charlemagne was a true reflection of its terroir, offering a glimpse into the soul of Burgundy.

Following closely behind was the 2017 Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne. This wine exuded elegance and finesse, showcasing a beautiful balance between freshness and maturity. Its aromas of green apple, pear, and a subtle touch of vanilla were simply captivating.

The 2019 Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne was another gem, marked by its youthful exuberance. It teased the senses with its lively acidity and a promising future that will undoubtedly reveal even greater complexity as it matures.

The 2009 Bonneau du Martray Corton-Charlemagne was a testament to the aging potential of this legendary estate. It had evolved gracefully over the years, offering a delightful blend of honeyed notes, preserved lemon, and a distinct nuttiness. A wine that showcased the magic of time in the bottle.

To round off this unforgettable tasting, we explored two vintages of Bonneau du Martray Corton, the 2019 and the 2009. While these wines might not have taken center stage like their Corton-Charlemagne counterparts, they displayed their own unique charm. The 2019 Corton was brimming with youthful energy, while the 2009 Corton had aged gracefully, revealing layers of earthiness and dark fruit complexity.

The Bonneau du Martray tasting experience led by Thibault Jacquet and Charles Curtis MW was a journey into the heart of Burgundy’s terroir. These wines, each with its own distinct personality, were a testament to the remarkable interplay between nature and the winemaking craft. While my personal favorites were the 2015 Corton-Charlemagne for its outstanding character, followed closely by the 2017, 2019, and 2009, as well as the 2019 Corton and 2009 Corton, every wine on this remarkable evening was a celebration of the art of winemaking. An unforgettable evening for any wine enthusiast, reminding us why Burgundy remains a pinnacle of wine excellence.