Produced from purchased fruit coming from a parcel located in the Aloxe-Corton sector of its vineyard, the 2003 Quintessence de Corton-Charlemagne (white) was vinified, aged, and bottled separately because Girardin was so impressed by the tiny berries his grower sold him. Its spiced pear aromas lead to a ripe, lush, soft personality revealing pear, apple, mineral, and spice flavors. This wine has delightful depth yet lacks the enormous concentration I expected from Girardin’s description of the fruit. That being said, it is a definite step up from the normal Corton-Charlemagne cuvee in 2003. Projected maturity: 2007-2014. Importer: Vineyard Brands, Birmingham, AL; tel. (205) 980-8802; Vincent Girardin also bottles some of these same wines under the Baron de la Charriere label, imported by Eric Solomon European Cellars, Charlotte, NC; tel. (704) 358-1565