Corton-Vergennes Grand Cru

About this wine

Corton-Vergennes is a rare and prestigious Grand Cru site on the hill of Corton, shared almost exclusively by Domaine Chanson Père et Fils as a near-monopole and the Hospices de Beaune. This exceptional white wine is crafted from 100% Chardonnay, reflecting the unique clay and limestone terroir of this prized south-east facing plot of approximately 0.6 hectares. It displays a brilliant gold color with intense aromas of exotic fruits like mango and peach, complemented by mineral and iodine notes. On the palate, it is complex, broad-shouldered, and powerful, yet maintains beautiful freshness and a long, elegant finish. It is a wine of significant aging potential, evolving gracefully over 10 to 20 years.

Sommelier's Note

"The true white masterpiece of Corton — its structural intensity, mineral depth, and aromatic complexity are unmatched. A wine every serious enthusiast must encounter at least once."

Food Pairings

Pairs perfectly with rich seafood such as lobster, crayfish, and scallops, fish in creamy sauces, foie gras, and poultry like Bresse chicken. It also harmonizes beautifully with fine French cheeses. The wine's mineral intensity and Chardonnay richness make it a superb companion to delicate and luxurious dishes alike.

When to drink it

Ideal for milestone celebrations, formal dinners, anniversaries, and as the centerpiece of a sophisticated gathering of wine connoisseurs. A gift that conveys the deepest respect and admiration.

Specs

Grape Varieties

Chardonnay

Style

White

Price Range

¥25,000–35,000 (per bottle, at retail)

Terroir & Winemaking

The vineyard covers a small plot of approximately 0.6 hectares on the hill of Corton with a south-east exposure on clay and limestone soils. The grapes are harvested and undergo meticulous vinification, followed by approximately 16 months of aging in French oak barrels to ensure precision, depth, and structural balance. The resulting wine is bottled with careful attention to preserving its characteristic tension and minerality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Corton-Vergennes so rare?

Corton-Vergennes is one of the very few white Grand Cru wines within the Corton appellation, which is predominantly known for red wines. Domaine Chanson holds it as a near-monopole with only about 0.6 hectares, making production extremely limited.

What does it taste like?

It is a powerful, full-bodied white wine with intense notes of exotic fruit (mango, peach), fresh butter, and a distinctive mineral and iodine finish. It is rich yet precise, with a long, elegant aftertaste.

What food pairs best with this wine?

Rich seafood such as lobster and scallops, creamy poultry dishes like Bresse chicken, foie gras, and refined Japanese cuisine — particularly white fish konbujime (kelp-cured), scallop sauté, and saikyo-yaki (miso-marinated fish).

When is the best time to drink it?

It is approachable now but has excellent aging potential of 10 to 20 years. With time it develops deeper complexity, honeyed notes, and a silkier texture.

Is it made from Chardonnay?

Yes, it is 100% Chardonnay. Despite Corton being famous for Pinot Noir, the Vergennes climat is a prized exception producing white Grand Cru from Chardonnay.