2020 Jean-Michel Gaunoux Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes
Domaine Jean-Michel Gaunoux
Jean-Michel Gaunoux established his eponymous domaine in 1990 after working alongside his father at the historic family estate, Domaine François Gaunoux. Operating out of Meursault, he manages exceptional, highly coveted premier cru parcels, particularly in Charmes, Genevrières, and Gouttes d'Or. Gaunoux’s viticulture is rooted in sustainable (lutte raisonnée) practices, and his winemaking philosophy is deeply traditional and patient. He typically utilizes a modest percentage of new oak (15% to 30%) and avoids excessive bâtonnage (lees stirring), preferring to let the wines develop their natural richness, tension, and complexity over extended cellaring. His expressions of Meursault are celebrated for their dense concentration, classic aromatic profiles, and remarkable aging potential offering quintessential white Burgundy that balances opulence with refined mineral drive.
Jean-Michel Gaunoux Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes 2020
"Les Charmes" is widely recognized as one of Meursault's most iconic premier crus, celebrated for yielding wines of exceptional breadth, generosity, and opulent texture. The 2020 vintage from Gaunoux captures the inherent richness of this lower-slope site while maintaining the vibrant line of acidity that characterizes the vintage. With its classic profile of toasted hazelnut, orchard fruit, and subtle buttery undertones, this wine offers a rich, expansive palate anchored by a firm mineral backbone, ensuring excellent evolution in the cellar.
Appellation: Meursault 1er Cru Les Charmes
Vintage: 2020
Format: 0.75L
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Grape Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Aging: 15 to 16 months in French oak barrels (15% to 30% new oak to support structure without masking terroir).
Vinification: Traditional Burgundian vinification; direct pneumatic pressing; fermentation in barrel using indigenous yeasts; full malolactic fermentation. Minimal to no bâtonnage to preserve freshness and enhance aging potential.
Tasting Notes: A rich and inviting bouquet of ripe yellow pear, white peach, toasted almonds, and fresh churned butter. The palate is voluminous and textured, offering layers of concentrated stone fruit balanced by a bright, lifting acidity and a long, savory finish.
Food Pairing: Lobster thermidor, roasted poultry in a creamy morel sauce, or mature soft-rind cheeses such as Époisses or classic Brie de Meaux.
Historical Ratings
2019: 90–92 pts (Neal Martin, Vinous)