By Florian Rossignol, 12 Aug 2021

Louis Essa and his father Patrick Essa are leading Domaine Buisson-Charles in the heart of Meursault. Covering 8 hectares, they are professionals of Meursault wines. You might ask yourself why the domaine bears that name? Patrick’s wife, Catherine Buisson, daughter of Michel Buisson, is carrying a long line of winemakers in her family.

Historically, the domaine has always ploughed its vineyards instead of using weedkiller, they are thoughtful and organic in their way of managing the estate: small yields, hand harvested, strict sorting, no correction made on must or grapes. Their reds are fermented with whole clusters, giving the wines a nice bouquet, and rich personality. The whites are vigorous and powerful, with each vineyard expressing its nuances. I enjoy them young, but they can definitely age. Limited new oak is used for both colours.

In Meursault there are multiple styles. Those who have succeeded the most are obviously Coche Dury, Jean-Marc Roulot and Arnaud Ente, all so-called early pickers, as usually they are the first ones to harvest their plots. Domaine Buisson Charles on the contrary is most of the time one of the last ones to pick its grapes. Does it mean their wines are heavy, or jammy? That’s what I was worried about before tasting them. And in fact, they are not. Of course, a certain concentration comes from that ripeness but it is very well integrated. Louis and Patrick manage to keep a good level of acidity that gives extra length and makes them complete wines. 

Great wines, and a great estate, it is a must to taste them. We have limited quantities of 2018 and 2019 to offer, and they don’t break the bank!