At a glance

Producer

Lucien Le Moine

Region

Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru, Bourgogne, France

Grape variety

Chardonnay

Wine type

White

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Green apple, citrus peel, wet stone, white flowers, subtle toasted oak and light smokiness.

Evolution: Will gain richer orchard fruit, honeyed nuances, and creamy texture over next 5-10 years.

At peak: Complex layers of citrus, minerality, brioche, toasted almond, and a long, refreshing finish.

Structure

Acidity

High, crisp and well-integrated

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

13.0-13.5%

Aging potential

25-30 years from vintage due to high acidity, minerality, and fine structure

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2043

Optimal window

2025 to 2046

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Still developing complexity with prominent mineral and citrus notes; youthfully vibrant acidity

Top Grand Cru Corton-Charlemagne wines from Lucien Le Moine in the great 2018 vintage have the structure and acidity needed to age gracefully for multiple decades. The wine typically unfolds greater complexity in the second decade post-vintage, reaching its aromatic and textural peak between 12-20 years of age.

Food pairing

Ideal with rich seafood (lobster, scallops), white truffle dishes, creamy poultry sauces, fine cheeses (Comté, aged Gruyère), and delicate mushroom risotto.

Serving

Serving temperature

12-14°C / 54-57°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of cover crops, manual harvest, limited use of chemical inputs, natural yeasts in fermentation, careful vineyard management to preserve soil health and biodiversity

Lucien Le Moine employs sustainable farming principles while not fully certified organic or biodynamic. Their focus on low-intervention winemaking and environmental stewardship contributes positively to sustainability, though international transport to global markets increases carbon footprint. Packaging choices help mitigate environmental impacts.