Domaine Faiveley Meursault 1er Cru Charmes 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1825 by Pierre Faiveley in Nuits-Saint-Georges, Domaine Faiveley has remained a family-owned estate for seven generations. With over 125 hectares of vineyards, it is one of the largest vineyard owners in Burgundy. The domaine’s holdings include prestigious Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites across the Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. Under the leadership of Erwan Faiveley since 2005, the estate has embraced sustainable viticulture and modernized winemaking techniques, enhancing the quality and reputation of its wines.

Producer and Wine Maker

Erwan Faiveley, representing the seventh generation of the Faiveley family, has been instrumental in elevating the estate’s stature. Collaborating with Technical Director Jérôme Flous, the team emphasizes precision in both vineyard management and winemaking. Their approach focuses on minimal intervention, allowing each wine to express its unique origin. The duo’s dedication to quality and innovation ensures that Domaine Faiveley’s wines consistently showcase elegance, depth, and a true sense of place.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Meursault 1er Cru Charmes vineyard, covering approximately 30.76 hectares, is situated on the southern side of the Meursault appellation in the Côte de Beaune. Domaine Faiveley’s parcel, planted in 1977, benefits from a southeast exposure and silt-stony soils. This terroir provides optimal conditions for Chardonnay, contributing to the wine’s richness and minerality. The vineyard’s microclimate, influenced by its proximity to Puligny-Montrachet, ensures a balance between ripeness and acidity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo gentle pressing. Fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, with 40-50% new oak, over a period of several weeks. The wine is aged on its lees for 17-18 months, with regular bâtonnage (lees stirring) to enhance texture and complexity. This meticulous approach aims to preserve the wine’s purity and express the unique terroir of Meursault Charmes.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Meursault 1er Cru Charmes exhibits a brilliant pale yellow hue. The nose reveals complex aromas of delicate white flowers, ripe yellow fruits, and subtle woody notes. On the palate, it is generous and smooth, with a brilliant freshness and a long-lasting finish. The wine’s balance between richness and acidity ensures both immediate appeal and aging potential.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Premier Cru Chardonnay pairs excellently with dishes such as salmon terrine, scallops, or poultry fricassee. Its richness complements creamy sauces, while its acidity balances fatty meats. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with mushroom risotto or a cheese platter featuring mild and soft cheeses.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F) in a tulip-shaped white wine glass to concentrate its aromas. No decanting is necessary. Allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes in the glass will enhance its expressive bouquet.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2022 vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years, developing greater complexity and depth over time.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%