Corton Charlemagne 2021 Jean-Claude Ramonet

Tasting Note Corton Charlemagne 2021

It offers aromas of lemon zest, white peach, and crushed oyster shells, with hazelnut notes from the oak barrels blending subtly in the background rather than overpowering the fruit. On the palate, it feels firm and slightly salty, and the 14% alcohol supports the fruit's flavor without any heat. The acidity cuts through a long, lingering finish with a subtle hint of bitterness; this is precisely what defines an excellent Corton Charlemagne. It is still young and closed off; further aging will be beneficial.

Grape Varieties

The Corton-Charlemagne regulations permit only a single grape variety, and the 2021 vintage Ramonet adheres strictly to this: Chardonnay (100%).

The Chardonnay produced on this hillside is characterized by a solid structure and citrus notes rather than tropical fruit aromas. Grown in this type of cool-climate limestone soil, Chardonnay builds its structure through acidity rather than fruit weight, so this wine offers a stony character before any ripe flavors emerge.

Cellaring Potential

It is best enjoyed between 2028 and 2048. The acidity and concentration derived from low yields support this Corton Charlemagne. As it ages, the pale gold color deepens, and notes of nuts, honey, and toast emerge in place of the citrus aromas. Serve at 12°C. For young wines, it is recommended to open the bottle 30 minutes before drinking.

About Jean-Claude Ramonet

Pierre Ramonet arrived in Chassagne in the late 1920s, traveling with a backpack to buy grapes. In 1934, he acquired his first Ruchottes vineyard. Today, Noël and Jean-Claude manage the domaine, maintaining old vines and low yields.

Terroir & Climate

Corton-Charlemagne is located high on the Corton hill and features a slope of 20-23% across Ladoix-Serrigny, Pernand-Vergelesses, and Aloxe-Corton. The total area is approximately 52 hectares. Beneath the topsoil lie limestone and rendzina soils, covered by marl rich in yellow, ochre, and brown clay. While the marl retains moisture and slows down ripening, the west- and southwest-facing slopes allow the fruit to fully ripen without overheating. This combination is the source of the wine's structure and stony edge.

Winemaking

Ramonet's Corton Charlemagne undergoes traditional fermentation using up to 70% new oak barrels. This provides just enough oak character to support the dense structure of Chardonnay without overwhelming the briny notes imparted by the hillside terroir.

Food Pairing

Because its saltiness and body are in harmony, it pairs well with rich, flavorful dishes. Bresse chicken poached in a cream sauce remains the best Burgundian pairing. Turbot served with beurre blanc sauce is another excellent pairing, as the wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the butter. The same goes for grilled lobster. Alternatively, an aged Comté harmonizes perfectly with the nutty notes developed in the wine itself.