1989 Meursault Clos de la Barre

The 1989 Meursault-Clos de la Barre offers a wonderful juxtaposition of power and elegance. The high acidity and formidable concentration level result in a hazelnut and mineral-scented wine, with gorgeous levels of extraction, admirable purity of flavor, and a long, stylish finish. It is approachable now, but should be at its best between 1993-2005. Meursault yields for the Comte Lafon in 1989 were a minuscule 25 hectoliters per hectare. In high yield years, the wines of the Comte Lafon are usually among the most concentrated in Burgundy. From this readers can extrapolate the kind of intensity levels one is dealing with in a vintage such as 1989. Dominique Lafon, who is now in complete charge in the cellars, has continued to move toward a more organic style of winemaking. He has eliminated all fertilizers except for manure, uses minimum amounts of sulphur, and bottles his Meursault unfiltered. If you have the requisite discretionary income, these Meursaults are must purchases. Importer: Classic Wines, Brookline, MA.