B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
"This is lovely and a wine that seemingly always ages well even though this should be approachable on the younger side." - Allen Meadows, Burghound
To Burgundy insiders and aficionados, Chateau des Quarts carries all the hallmark qualities of a cult-caliber domaine with singular collectible appeal. Let's start with the vineyard's pedigree. Nestled in the southernmost village in Pouilly-Fuisse, the Clos des Quarts itself is a remarkable site of centenarian vines on spectacular clay-limestone soils. Perfect southeast exposure and a slight incline make for classic Burgundian terroir, and the vineyard has been held in high regard by local vignerons for generations, including Pouilly-Fuisse statesman Olivier Merlin.
Merlin's reputation for scouting out the best sites in the appellation was well-established, and he had buying grapes from the estate for years when it came up for sale in 2012. Recognizing the can't-miss opportunity before him and enlisting the partnership of his long-time friend, the legendary Dominique Lafon, he purchased the property with the aim of making one of Pouilly-Fuisse's great collectible treasures, and today that's just where the Clos des Quarts stands.
The excellent 2022 vintage yielded a resounding success for Merlin and Lafon, this 94-point rendition boasts "marvellous backbone, extreme purity, entirely fresh white fruit, yet with a racy intensity that is exceptional." Vinous' Neal Martin likewise lauds its "seductive bouquet" with a palate that's "elegant and poised," qualities which may ultimately up his 93+ points after time in the bottle. The track record, the prized terroir, the prestigious winemaking pedigree - it's all here in a fantastic expression that stands toe-to-toe with many white Burgundies at twice its price or more. |