The 2023 Louis Billard Meursault Magnum is a small-production 100% Chardonnay from Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune, presented in a 1500ml bottle, equivalent to two standard bottles. A fifth-generation winegrower, Louis launched his own label with the 2022 vintage, following experience at Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Domaine Georges Roumier and Australia’s By Farr. His 2023 Meursault comes from vines around 35 years old on clay-limestone soils with some sandstone. The importer records production of 1,795 standard bottles and just 150 magnums, making this larger format a distinctive opportunity to explore his work during the early years of his independent career.
The 2023 combines ripe stone fruit and citrus with toasted hazelnut, gentle vanilla and a subtle struck-match note. Contemporary merchant descriptions emphasise its creamy texture, balanced by fresh acidity and mineral definition. The grapes were whole-bunch pressed, followed by a slow barrel fermentation. Maturation comprised 12 months in oak, approximately 35% new, followed by four months together in stainless steel. This approach gives the wine a framework of richness and oak complexity, with the final period in tank allowing the components to integrate. Still young, it offers an appealing expression of Meursault’s combination of generous texture and freshness.
Ben’s Recommendation:
What makes this bottle particularly attractive is the combination of a promising young producer, limited Magnum production and Meursault’s generous Chardonnay character. I would favour giving it more time and aim to drink it from approximately 2028 through 2035, assuming good storage. Magnums generally develop more slowly, so patience should help the fruit and oak come together while allowing greater complexity to emerge. With age, I would expect hazelnut, brioche and savoury notes to complement its stone fruit and citrus. Pair it with lobster, scallops, turbot or roast chicken with a cream sauce. For someone seeking a special white Burgundy to cellar and share, this is an appealing bottle from an emerging name.
