It is always difficult to assess Burgundy vintages, as quality depends on harvest conditions, vineyard site and individual winemaking practices. The consensus among wine writers is that 2009 Burgundy is a good but not great vintage for white wines. Master of wine Clive Coates has given white Burgundies an overall score of 17/20. He describes the wines as 'ripe and ample and most attractive, but they are more variable. Many are quite delicious. Others lack just a little zip. The energy is missing.'
Weather conditions in August and September were described as ideal. Warmer weather meant an early harvest in September. The fruit was generally healthy and ripe, but acid levels were on the low side. Jancis Robinson says this 'means many white 2009s are relatively soft and rich. Ripe grapes meant no added sugar to boost alcohol levels, but yields were relatively high. This suggests they will make satisfying early drinking but should probably be consumed long before the more structured and long-term 2008s.'
What does this mean for the wine drinker? If you are impatient and enjoy fruitier, fuller bodied wines that are ready to drink now, this is your vintage.
Domaine Jean Chartron
This is a fifth-generation winery established in 1859. Today the family owns about 12 hectares.
Vineyards are cultivated organically but do not have official certification.