The 2008 Corton is gracious and impeccable from start to finish. It is every bit as impressive as the 2009, even if radically different in style. The 2008 emphasizes the perfume of its fruit along with a sensual, beguiling personality. The gorgeous finish is layered with hard candy and liqueur-like notes that add sweetness and an air of sophistication. This is an exceptionally elegant wine from Bonneau de Martray. The harvest in 2008 began on the 30th of September, a full three weeks later than in 2009. Yields were also quite a bit lower than in 2009 because of the irregular flowering. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033. Bonneau de Martray is an excellent source for both white and red Corton. The estate is currently in the midst of conversion to biologic farming. The red Corton is not imported into the US, but is available elsewhere. Even in 2009 the style tends towards elegance rather than power. According to proprietor Jean-Charles la Bault de la Moriniere, much of that can be attributed to the exposure of his vineyards, which receive a lot of light but not as much heat. The Pinot Noir harvest began on September 9th. The estate vinified the Pinot (100% destemmed) in two cuves, which saw 19 and 22 days of maceration respectively. Malos started in May 2010 and ended in August, and the wine was racked into steel in the fall to settle prior to bottling. Readers will find notes on the estate’s 2009 and 2008 Corton-Charlemagne on www.erobertparker.com A Becky Wasserman Selection, Le Serbet, various American importers, including: Atlanta Wholesale Wines, Atlanta, GA; tel. (404) 696-9440; C’Est Vin, District of Columbia; tel. (703) 243-3559, Scott Paul Wines, Oregon; tel. (503) 852-7300, Wines Unlimited, Louisiana; tel. (504) 897-0191