Laurent Ponsot Corton Charlemagne Cuvee du Kalimeris 2022

The "Kalimeris" – A Hedonistic Convergence of Sun and Stone

In March 2026, the 2022 'Cuvée du Kalimeris' is proving to be a spectacular follow-up to the precision of the 2021. While the previous year was defined by its "crystalline" tension, the 2022 is a wine of radiant volume and unctuous power. Despite a hot and dry growing season that initially caused concern for white Burgundy producers, Laurent Ponsot’s multi-plot approach—blending fruit from 12 different locations across the hill of Corton—has allowed him to capture the richness of the sun while retaining a vital, refreshing acidity. The result is a wine that feels "curvaceous" and complete.

The Terroir: A Panoramic Blend

• The Vibe: If the 2021 was "lightning," the 2022 is "golden light." It is broader on the palate but anchored by a deep mineral resonance.

• The Mosaic: The blend includes fruit from the Pernand-Vergelesses side (known for its mineral edge and "verve") and the Aloxe-Corton side (which provides ripe, juicy fruit and power). In a warm year like 2022, this balance was essential to maintain the "Charlemagne" identity.

• The Philosophy: True to Laurent’s "haute-couture" style, the wine saw zero new oak. This is a critical stylistic choice for 2022; it prevents the naturally ripe, 13.5% ABV fruit from becoming heavy or "buttery," keeping the focus entirely on the terroir’s "flint and blossom."

🍷 Tasting Notes (The "Vibe" in 2026)

Current assessments from early 2026 describe the 2022 as a "tremendously hedonistic" wine that is already showing incredible accessibility.

• The Nose: Classy and Exuberant. It opens with a "very classy" bouquet of lemon oil, yellow plum, and lime curd. As it develops in the glass, you’ll find notes of toasted nuts, white cream, and a light biscuit scent, all underpinned by an energetic floral lift.

• The Palate: Juicy and Sensual. The entry is broad and "mouth-filling." It possesses a "crystalline" mineral touch that slices through the ripe fruit density. Tasters often describe a "vibrato" of minerality that hums underneath the powerful fruit.

• The Finish: Thrilling and Long. It leaves a persistent, saline trail with a smoky, stony finish that acts as a perfect counterweight to the initial richness.

📋 Technical Snapshot

Best Paired With:

• The "Coastal" Match: Grilled Turbot or Scallops with Lemon Zest; the wine’s mineral "vibrato" matches the salinity of the sea.

• The "Gourmet" Choice: Poularde de Bresse in a cream sauce; the volume of the 2022 Kalimeris can handle the richness of the cream without being overwhelmed.

• The Simple Luxury: Aged Gruyère or Comté; the nutty, crystalline notes in the cheese mirror the "biscuit" and mineral notes in the wine.

Pro Tip: In 2026, critics suggest that because the 2022 has such "unctuous power," it is more robust than the 2021. You can serve it at a classic 12–14°C. If the wine feels a bit "tight" or reductive (showing a hint of matchstick/smoke) when first opened, give it 20 minutes in a decanter. It will reward you by "blossoming" into a bouquet of honeyed citrus and white flowers.