Those of you with deeper cellars and more patience will probably say these were opened too soon. You’re probably not wrong, but I have no regrets. One wants to taste along the way without blindly cellaring for decades!
2009 Cornu Corton Bressandes
Elegant juicy yet firm fruit with an iron tannic note that evokes the Corton origins (at least to my suggestive mind). Neither a brooding shutdown red Burg nor a sloppy 2009. It strikes the middle quite nicely and for most of the evening is a delicious drink with dinner. However, late in the evening it shows its full range of potential as the fruit gets sweeter, darker and more tannic, while always remaining coiled and composed. Would love to have a case of this to follow.
2012 Chandon de Briailles Corton Blanc
The flavors are pretty basic golden apple pear. Nothing too crazy or mindbending. The texture speaks of distinction with ample fruit and firm sappy poise. It is certainly a pleasure to drink and a fine accompaniment to the meal. But I struggle with the price/value proposition. I wouldn’t mind having a case to follow and see what it can develop, but given all the extra risks with aging white Burgundy, that is unlikely to happen for me!