Visiting Monique’s Family
“J’ai décidé d’être heureux, car c’est bon pour la santé.”
(“I have decided to be happy, because it is good for my health.”)”
After doing our city tour, Monique had made plans to visit family and had bottles opened for us, after all, Today is Sunday and a time to get together with family. Her friend Odile showed up at the entrance and accompanied us to the garage to pick up my bike and accessories for Monique. Odile led the way to Hauteville, a small village just outside Dijon.
Bernard, Monique’s first cousin, and her aunt were waiting for us. I had the chance to see their family cellar and wine collection. Bernard proudly showed me his treasures, pulling out a few opened bottles. We all gathered in her aunt’s living room to taste them. The golden hue of the Meursault wines revealed their age. In my opinion, they had passed their prime, and Monique agreed. Still, Meursault is Meursault—one of the finest Chardonnays in the world.
The golden hue of Meursault wines comes from a combination of factors, including the Chardonnay grape, the winemaking process, and aging techniques:
Chardonnay Grapes: Chardonnay, the primary grape variety in Meursault, naturally produces wines that have a deeper yellow color, especially as they age.
Oak Aging: Many Meursault wines are aged in oak barrels, which not only enriches the flavors with hints of vanilla and spice but also deepens the wine’s color, giving it a golden tint. The oak’s natural tannins impart a bit of color that enhances the richness.
Aging Process: As Meursault wines age in bottle, they tend to evolve in color, shifting from pale straw-yellow to deeper gold. This oxidation over time is gradual, enhancing the wine’s complexity and intensity.
Terroir Influence: The limestone-rich soils and unique climate of Meursault also play a role. The mineral components add brightness and reflectiveness, which may visually enhance the golden color in the glass.
This golden color is especially prominent in older vintages, and it often hints at the wine's depth and richness—qualities that make Meursault whites so distinct.
1962 and 62. What a moment to enjoy Meursault on this day.
The 62s
This is just amazing. We are 62 years old. This is something meaningful! A shared experience, a pivotal moment in life, or simply fate bringing you together at a time when reflection and new beginnings often happen.