Burgundy

Chablis

Chablis is the northernmost region of Burgundy, and, consequently the coolest.

Mid-way between Beaune and Paris, the Chablis winegrowing region stretches over around 20 communes. Nestled among the valleys and wooded hilltops, the vineyards cover the hillsides running alongside the pretty Serein Valley. The vines sink their roots deep into the clay-limestone soil, drawing on them for their characteristic mineral aromas, to the delight of Chablis drinkers.

Here, Chardonnay reigns supreme. It is used for all Chablis wines and has made them famous around the world. The most highly prized among them is the wines classified Chablis Grand Cru, with its green-gold color and perfect balance between liveliness, dryness and acidity.

There are 3 other classifications.

Chablis Premier Cru wines. This appellation encompasses a wide range of aromas from the most mineral to the most floral.

Chablis wines are very dry, and stand out with their freshness and sophistication.

Petit Chablis are wines rich in aromas of white blossom and citrus and are light and full of life.

A Drinker’s Retro…perspective

Back in the early naughties, we were hoovering Chablis from the early 1970’s. When the Tsunami hit, wheelbarrows of Grand & 1er Cru’s were arriving from the auction houses at around $14 a bottle. By the time it receded, after everyone else had caught on, they were up at around $40 a bottle and still a bargain. Purity, complexity, amazing texture, lovely lines of acid were the hallmarks of these incredible wines. Testut et Fréres Grenouille featured! Such a great vineyard.

It’s wines like these that both inspire and excite!

While we were drinking Grand Cru and Premier Cru wines back then, today with dedicated work in the vineyard and winery we are seeing exceptional Chablis and Petit Chablis wines being produced.

Area Planted

The total area under production is 3,367 Ha

Grand Cru

Area in production (2018): 100 ha.

Chablis with seven officially delineated Grand Cru climats, covering an area of 247 acres (100 hectares), all located on one southwest facing hill overlooking the town of Chablis. There is one vineyard, La Moutonne, located on this hill between the Grand Cru vineyards of Les Preuses and Vaudésir that is considered an “unofficial” Grand Cru and it will appear on wine labels. However, the Institut National des Appellations d’Origine (INAO) does not recognize La Moutonne as a Grand Cru.

The seven Grand Cru are Blanchot, Bougros, Les Clos, Grenouilles, Preuses, Valmur, Vaudésir.

Premier Cru

Area under production (2018): 783 ha.

At the turn of the 21st century, there were 40 Premier cru vineyards in Chablis. In 2009, the official list was expanded to 89 vineyards. The names of many of these vineyards do not appear on wine labels because of an INAO allowance that permits the use of “umbrella names” – where smaller, lesser known vineyards are allowed to use the name of a nearby more famous Premier cru vineyard. Seventeen of the most well known “umbrella” vineyards are bolded below.

Chablis + Petit Chablis make up the balance of the area.

Most Common Varieties

White wines only – Chardonnay (locally known as « Beaunois »).

I suspect we will see increasing experimentation with Pinot as the climate warms.

Viticulture

Viticulture in Chablis follows similar lines to that in burgundy with close planted vines low to the ground. As in so many parts of the world we are seeing more and more growers shift to sustainable biological viticutlure with many switching to organics and biodynamics.

The region is prone to frost risk and it’s not uncommon to see smudge pots burning across the vineyards during the growing season.

Winemaking

Like every wine region of the world Chablis has been exposed to advances in modern winemaking technology, shifts in stylistic interpretations, and, preferences, and of course the impact of climate change.

The most significant areas of change have been in temperature-controlled fermentation, use of malolactic fermentation, use of oak, and, reduction in chaptalisation due to warmer riper vintages.

As you’d expect, those makers looking after their vineyards, achieving flavour ripeness early, able to pick early enough to retain natural acidity and judiciously apply use of oak are making exhilarating wines.

The devil in the detail with key elements including fruit handling to achieve the right levels of phenolic extraction, exposure to oxygen as juice, fermenting wine, and post-fermentation, use of wild yeast, lees contact, lees stirring, tank vs old vs new oak ratios, and time maturing pre-bottling.

Whilst depth, length, balance, complexity, freshness, and, development all play their part, it’s the texture of the great Chablis’ that sets them apart!

Check out the article ‘Getting Your Head Around Burgundy Part 10 – Chablis’. It covers Chablis in more detail, including videos explore the geology, geography and climate + a video 🎥 session with Bernard Raveneau!

Lavantureux's Sublime Vino!

“Clear pale lemon. The nose does not really speak at this stage. The volume of fruit is present, but perhaps not quite the nobility. Perhaps this is just very backward, with saline and citrus notes, with clearly some concentration on the palate.”  Jasper Morris 92-94 Points
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“A paler colour and richer nose, some wood, some muscle. Gently concentrated, with some citrus, then a wealth more fruit on the second half of the palate, a surge of energy. A really very long finish." Jasper Morris 92-95
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“A relatively young estate, Lavantureux is definitely a domaine to watch. Arnaud and David are now running things, with a recent 0.95ha acquisition in Vau de Vey. Farmed by hand, this is a delightful Premier Cru which emphasises the character of this steep, stony climat. Lovely density on the palate with an intriguing lime character, balanced by mineral, flinty notes and a touch of creamy oak adding more complexity. Subtle and nuanced.” Decanter
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“Pure mid yellow. Soft fruit on the nose. Lean with lemons and lime but enough volume of fruit with a salivatory fresh acidity behind, and very good length.” Jasper Morris 90-93 Points
$130
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Too steep for animals here and slippery too – so everything done by hand. A wide nose, half mineral and saline. Bigger – full, framed with fresh, melting acidity, insinuating delicious flavour. Very long – that’s another great 2018!  Bill Nanson
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“Very classy on the nose with dried apple and hints of pineapple and lilac. Medium-to full-bodied with a creamy and crunchy mouth feel from the ripe fruit and the bright acidity.” James Suckling
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“A nose of freshness – almost cold and saline – it has my attention. Mouth-filling. Super energy to this wine – plenty of citrus bitters again that slightly modify the texture – interestingly you note the barrel more in the flavours this time than the aromas – the reverse of the last wine – but the elevage was the same. Again, a great wine but wait 2 -3 years” Bill Nanson “More lemon than lime, a little touch of coconut, the wine has the intensity to handle it, amazin
$105
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“Another wine which started out in wood for 50% of the volume, which may explain the light coconut touch. Great floral points alongside, such energy of fruit, primary yellow notes, clean concentrated citrus zest, long saline finish. Another beautiful wine from this site.” Jasper Morris 90-92 Points 5-Star Wine
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House Chablis! Exceptional flavour & salty acid profile with a fine texture! From 3 parcels in Lignorelles – vines planted by grandfather – 50-60-year-old vines. Here with 40%-barrel elevage, all the higher crus with 50%. A touch of floral notes over a little vibration of minerality. Wide, slowly mouth-filling, so intense finishing, with width. Ooh, that’s super and with a proper salinity. Bravo! Bill Nanson
$75
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“A more concentrated width of aroma – here with a more overt nod to the barrel elevage. That’s beautifully vibrant and deeply flavoured – plenty of barrel, plenty of concentration. Wait 2-3 years for this great finishing wine – unless you are a fan of creamy-oak in your wine.”  Bill Nanson
$76
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“parcels in Lignorelles – vines planted by grandfather – 50-60-year-old vines. 40% barrel – a mix of sizes but nothing new, indeed about 5-year-old barrels An extra width that’s filled with extra freshness – that’s a great nose. Direct, structured, still with purity and energy and faintly austere too – overtly great villages – what a wine – bravo!” Bill Nanson “Pale lemon, with a beautifully perfumed nose, ripe but stopping short of honeysuckle. The minerals com
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Domaine Roland Lavantureux Chablis 2020

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

“All the domaine’s wines are vinified parcel by parcel – this comes from a single parcel in Lignorelles but a big parcel of 5ha and it’s the biggest cuvée of the domaine. Here starting to see a proportion of older barrels for elevage. A similar roundness and sweet invitation to drink. Mouth- filling, silky – here is a super wine for drinking today! The finish is pure and full of energy – again with lovely citrus-skin complexity. That’s really excellent.” Bill Nanson
$71
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Domaine Roland Lavantureux Petit Chablis 2020

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

“Here is the only wine that with 100% stainless-steel for all vinification and elevage. All from Lignorelles. That’s a very friendly nose – slightly round and faintly caramel despite tank elevage – an inviting sweetness. A little touch of green in the flavours but also lots of energy and citrus bitters. Very engaging, tasty wine. Long too.” Bill Nanson
$61
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William Fèvre Grand Crus

Grand Cru Journey Packs

What's in the Box? Chablis Bougros Grand Cru Domaine WK 93+, AM 92-94 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru Domaine WK 95, AM 93 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru Domaine WK 95 Chablis Les Preuses Grand Cru Domaine WK 95, AM 95 Chablis Côte de Bouguerots Grand Cru Domaine WK 95+, AM 96 Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru Domaine WK 96, AM 95  
$1,350
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What's in the Box? Chablis Bougros Grand Cru Domaine WK 94, AM 92-94 Chablis Vaudésir Grand Cru Domaine WK 94, AM 92-95 Chablis Valmur Grand Cru Domaine WK 95+, AM 92-95 Chablis Les Preuses Grand Cru Domaine WK 95 Chablis Côte de Bouguerots Grand Cru Domaine WK 96, AM 93-96 Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru Domaine WK 96, AM 94-96  
$1,495
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Les Clos

This is the largest and most famous Grand Cru; its fame based on its history as one of Chablis’ first vineyards. The appellation enjoys a southerly aspect with very white, dense and deep clay soil, resting on a limestone bed 80 cm below the ground, which brings to the wine those spicy notes so typical of this terroir. Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope. A cool, restrained and airy nose grudgingly divulges its combination of lemo
$340
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This is the largest and most famous Grand Cru; its fame based on its history as one of Chablis’ first vineyards. The appellation enjoys a southerly aspect with very white, dense and deep clay soil, resting on a limestone bed 80 cm below the ground, which brings to the wine those spicy notes so typical of this terroir. Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope. This too could be from nowhere else other than Chablis with its combination
$375
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This is the largest and most famous Grand Cru; its fame based on its history as one of Chablis’ first vineyards. The appellation enjoys a southerly aspect with very white, dense and deep clay soil, resting on a limestone bed 80 cm below the ground, which brings to the wine those spicy notes so typical of this terroir. Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope. A cool, restrained and airy nose grudgingly divulges its combination of lem
$662
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$622ea in any 6+
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This is the largest and most famous Grand Cru; its fame based on its history as one of Chablis’ first vineyards. The appellation enjoys a southerly aspect with very white, dense and deep clay soil, resting on a limestone bed 80 cm below the ground, which brings to the wine those spicy notes so typical of this terroir. Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope. This too could be from nowhere else other than Chablis with its combination
$800
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$760ea in any 6+
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This is the largest and most famous Grand Cru; its fame based on its history as one of Chablis’ first vineyards. The appellation enjoys a southerly aspect with very white, dense and deep clay soil, resting on a limestone bed 80 cm below the ground, which brings to the wine those spicy notes so typical of this terroir. Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope. If Kimmeridgian could be distilled, it would likely smell exactly like the nos
$168
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$158ea in any 6+
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This is the largest and most famous Grand Cru; its fame based on its history as one of Chablis’ first vineyards. The appellation enjoys a southerly aspect with very white, dense and deep clay soil, resting on a limestone bed 80 cm below the ground, which brings to the wine those spicy notes so typical of this terroir. Note: from 4 separate parcels totaling 4.11 ha, 3 of which are all at the top of the slope. If Kimmeridgian could be distilled, it would likely smell exactly like the nos
$330
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$300ea in any 6+
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Bougros ‘Cote de Bouguerots’

Bougros sits on a very steep slope, with a gradient of more than 30%, facing due south at the foot of the hill. The shallow soil, a mixture of clay and gravel, prevents excessive yields resulting in complex, robust wines.
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Bougros sits on a very steep slope, with a gradient of more than 30%, facing due south at the foot of the hill. The shallow soil, a mixture of clay and gravel, prevents excessive yields resulting in complex, robust wines. Note: from a 2.2 ha parcel at the bottom section of the vineyard; even so, the vineyard is so steep here that it must be worked entirely by hand as tractors would be dangerous to use. In a sense, the 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Côte Bouguerots offers a resumé of
$275
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Bougros sits on a very steep slope, with a gradient of more than 30%, facing due south at the foot of the hill. The shallow soil, a mixture of clay and gravel, prevents excessive yields resulting in complex, robust wines. Note: from a 2.2 ha parcel at the bottom section of the vineyard; even so, the vineyard is so steep here that it must be worked entirely by hand as tractors would be dangerous to use. A cool and highly restrained nose reluctantly offers up its array of citrus, tidal p
$325
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Bougros sits on a very steep slope, with a gradient of more than 30%, facing due south at the foot of the hill. The shallow soil, a mixture of clay and gravel, prevents excessive yields resulting in complex, robust wines. Note: from a 2.2 ha parcel at the bottom section of the vineyard; even so, the vineyard is so steep here that it must be worked entirely by hand as tractors would be dangerous to use. In a sense, the 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Côte Bouguerots offers a resumé of
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‘Les Preuses’

Les Preuses is probably taken from the word “Perreuse” (stone), the name given to the ancient Roman road which ran below the current vineyard. Made for ageing thanks to a dense, compact, clay-rich soil resting on a limestone bed. The 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Les Preuses is, if anything, even more electric than the formidable Valmur, wafting from the glass with notions of citrus oil, freshly baked bread, oyster jus and wet stones. Full-bodied, satiny and chiseled, it’s racy and intense
$258
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Les Preuses is probably taken from the word “Perreuse” (stone), the name given to the ancient Roman road which ran below the current vineyard. Made for ageing thanks to a dense, compact, clay-rich soil resting on a limestone bed. A deft application of wood frames the beautifully elegant nose of essence of pear, green apple, acacia blossom, lemon rind and a plethora of classic Chablis scents. The dense and unusually powerful large-scaled flavors don’t have the muscle of the Valmur bu
$294
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Les Preuses is probably taken from the word “Perreuse” (stone), the name given to the ancient Roman road which ran below the current vineyard. Made for ageing thanks to a dense, compact, clay-rich soil resting on a limestone bed. A deft application of wood frames the beautifully elegant nose of essence of pear, green apple, acacia blossom, lemon rind and a plethora of classic Chablis scents. The dense and unusually powerful large-scaled flavors don’t have the muscle of the Valmur bu
$640
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‘Vaudésir’

Set in the very heart of the Grand Cru area, Vaudesir has a subtle diversity in exposure. Its steep terrain contains more clay than limestone and produces wines of great finesse and elegance. Cool and strikingly elegant aromas include those of quinine, white peach, spice and an abundance of classic Chablis notes. The dense yet wonderfully refined medium-weight flavors brim with dry extract on the gorgeously long, balanced and highly complex finale. This is extremely stylish and very promi
$284
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‘Valmur’

With its terroir split into two parts on either side of the Sainte Vaubourg fountain path, it has slightly deeper clay-limestone soils than the other Grands Crus. Its shape is reminiscent of a small valley hence the name “Valmur”. Unwinding in the glass with aromas of peach, lemon oil, freshly baked bread, oyster shell and struck match, Fèvre’s 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur is full-bodied, concentrated and incisive, with a racy, electric profile and a searingly saline, intensely
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With its terroir split into two parts on either side of the Sainte Vaubourg fountain path, it has slightly deeper clay-limestone soils than the other Grands Crus. Its shape is reminiscent of a small valley hence the name “Valmur”. This could be from nowhere else but Chablis with its nose of crushed algae, iodine, green fruit and shellfish. There is outstanding density to the broad-shouldered and muscular flavors that stain the palate while the abundant dry extract buffers the firm aci
$284
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‘Bougros’

Bougros sits on a very steep slope, with a gradient of more than 30%, facing due south at the foot of the hill. The shallow soil, a mixture of clay and gravel, prevents excessive yields resulting in complex, robust wines. This is also aromatically reserved though determined swirling slowly reveals smoky aromas of green fruit, citrus and mineral reduction. The dense and very powerful big-bodied flavors flash plenty of muscle on the palate drenching and hugely long finish. This isn't refine
$232
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$212ea in any 6+
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William Fèvre Premier Crus

Premier Cru Journey Packs

What's in the Box? Chablis Montmains Premier Cru Domaine WK 92+, AM 90-92 Chablis Vaillons Premier Cru Domaine WK 92+, AM 89-92 Chablis Mont de Milieu Premier Cru Domaine WK 92+, AM 91-93 Chablis Les Lys Premier Cru Domaine WK 93+, AM 92 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru Domaine AM 91-93 Chablis Vaulorent Premier Cru Domaine WK 94+, AM 93
$788
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What's in the Box? Chablis Montmains Premier Cru Domaine WK 92, AM 91-93 Chablis Vaillons Premier Cru Domaine WK 93, AM 89-92 Chablis Mont de Milieu Premier Cru Domaine WK 91, AM 91-94 Chablis Fourchaume Premier Cru Domaine AM 90-93 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru Domaine WK 94, AM 93 Chablis Vaulorent Premier Cru Domaine WK 95, AM 93
$905
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‘Vaillons’

From a huge 3.5 ha holding that is composed by <75% Vaillons proper with the remainder from Roncières, Mélinots and Châtains. Derived from old vines in Les Minots (that are a source for the Fèvre massale selection), as well as holdings in Roncières and Chatains, the 2020 Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons unwinds in the glass with notes of white flowers, crisp stone fruit and clear honey. Medium to fullbodied, satiny and enveloping, it’s a beautifully vibrant, racy wine that concludes wit
$122
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From a huge 3.5 ha holding that is composed by <75% Vaillons proper with the remainder from Roncières, Mélinots and Châtains. Here too there is a vague suggestion of the exotic on the slightly riper aromas of pear compote, ocean spray, iodine and wet stone. The rich, vibrant and palate coating flavors are also supported by bright acidity that carries over to the wonderfully long, youthfully austere and firm finale. This beauty should age effortlessly 91-93 points,  Drink: 2029+
$137
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‘Mountmains’

A domaine wine composed of <40% Butteaux plus some Forêts and Montmains proper in roughly equal amounts. Opening in the glass with notes of citrus oil, crisp green apple, iodine and wet stones, Fèvre's 2019 Chablis 1er Cru Montmains is medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated, with incisive acids and chalky grip on the finish. Cropped at 35 hectoliters per hectare, it's unusually deep and structured this year, and it will reward patience. William Kelley
$103
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A domaine wine composed of <40% Butteaux plus some Forêts and Montmains proper in roughly equal amounts. Consisting of roughly equal parts Montmains, Butteaux and Forêts (the three sous-climats of Montmains), the 2020 Chablis 1er Cru Montmains offers up aromas of crisp green apple, white flowers, bee pollen and oyster shell. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and concentrated, it’s taut and precise, concluding with a saline finish. Drink: 2023 - 2045 William Kelley, The Wine Advocate
$137
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A domaine wine composed of <40% Butteaux plus some Forêts and Montmains proper in roughly equal amounts. An overtly floral-inflected nose displays notes of pear, apple, citrus confit and mineral reduction. There is impressive density to the rich and surprisingly powerful middleweight plus flavors that are supported by bracing lemon-tinged acidity on the more complex, long and highly refreshing finish. Good stuff and worth your interest. 90-93 points, Drink: 2027+, Burghound
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‘Mont de Milieu’

The name of this appellation comes from Mont de Lieu which marks the border between Burgundy and Champagne, illustrated by a marker stone dividing the two duchies which can be found on its summit. With a double exposure moving from south to southeast facing, this terroir benefits from a higher average temperature and more sunshine than the other Premiers Crus.
$128
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The name of this appellation comes from Mont de Lieu which marks the border between Burgundy and Champagne, illustrated by a marker stone dividing the two duchies which can be found on its summit. With a double exposure moving from south to southeast facing, this terroir benefits from a higher average temperature and more sunshine than the other Premiers Crus. The 2019 Chablis 1er Cru Mont de Milieu unwinds in the glass with notions of orange oil, clear honey, beeswax and white flowers. M
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‘Les Lys’

The 2020 Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys is also especially good this year, delivering aromas of white flowers, citrus oil, freshly baked bread and bee pollen. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, with a fleshy core of fruit and racy girdling acids, this cool, marl-rich site has evidently excelled in 2020. William Kelley 93+ points – The Wine Advocate   
$132
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A cooler and airier array is comprised by notes of citrus, quinine and essence of algae. The ultra-sleek and overtly mineral-driven flavors possess cuts-like-a-knife delineation before terminating in a chiseled, linear and moderately austere finale. This is a terrific example of Les Lys, indeed it’s textbook. 91-94 points, Drink: 2028+ Burghound The 2021 Chablis 1er Cru Les Lys is one of the range's highlights this year, offering up aromas of almonds, white flowers, green apple, cri
$148
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‘Montée de Tonnerre’

With a geological structure similar to the Grands Crus and excellent exposure, this terroir is considered one of the best Premiers Crus. The wine is both full and rich yet can also show its mineral and floral characteristics. The 2020 Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre is a terrific success, unfurling in the glass with aromas of crisp orchard fruit, white flowers, confit citrus and oatmeal. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and complete, it’s fleshy and seamless, with fine depth at the cor
$201
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With a geological structure similar to the Grands Crus and excellent exposure, this terroir is considered one of the best Premiers Crus. The wine is both full and rich yet can also show its mineral and floral characteristics. A discreet dollop of wood sets off the equally cool and perhaps even slightly more elegant aromas of acacia, citrus, seashore and oyster shell. The sleek and highly sophisticated medium-bodied flavors possess a really lovely texture while delivering superb length on
$201
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$181ea in any 6+
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With a geological structure similar to the Grands Crus and excellent exposure, this terroir is considered one of the best Premiers Crus. The wine is both full and rich yet can also show its mineral and floral characteristics. A discreet dollop of wood sets off the equally cool and perhaps even slightly more elegant aromas of acacia, citrus, seashore and oyster shell. The sleek and highly sophisticated medium-bodied flavors possess a really lovely texture while delivering superb length on
$428
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$398ea in any 6+
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‘Vaulorent’

This Climat is almost an extension of the slopes where the Grands Crus grow, with only a small path separating them. Sitting directly alongside Les Preuses, the proximity to its illustrious neighbours results in powerful, mineral wines. This could be from nowhere else but Chablis with its equally cool, elegant and airy aromas of white-fleshed fruit, floral, iodine and subtle passion fruit-scanted nose. The super-sleek, refined and energetic medium weight flavors possess both ample mineral
$160
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This Climat is almost an extension of the slopes where the Grands Crus grow, with only a small path separating them. Sitting directly alongside Les Preuses, the proximity to its illustrious neighbours results in powerful, mineral wines. The restrained and layered nose makes clear that this could be from nowhere else but Chablis with its aromas of algae, iodine, oyster shell and spiced pear. The texture of the medium weight flavors is also sleek and intense with slightly better density to
$187
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$173ea in any 6+
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This Climat is almost an extension of the slopes where the Grands Crus grow, with only a small path separating them. Sitting directly alongside Les Preuses, the proximity to its illustrious neighbours results in powerful, mineral wines. A much less expressive nose, indeed it is all but mute, requires aggressive swirling to eventually coax aromas of white orchard fruit, citrus blossom and seawater. The richer and slightly more powerful flavors also possess a sophisticated mouthfeel along w
$190
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$176ea in any 6+
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This Climat is almost an extension of the slopes where the Grands Crus grow, with only a small path separating them. Sitting directly alongside Les Preuses, the proximity to its illustrious neighbours results in powerful, mineral wines. A much less expressive nose, indeed it is all but mute, requires aggressive swirling to eventually coax aromas of white orchard fruit, citrus blossom and seawater. The richer and slightly more powerful flavors also possess a sophisticated mouthfeel along w
$415
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$385ea in any 6+
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The Wines of Georges Deschamps

Lovely wine, beautifully made harmonious, long fine layered, of great complexity, softer acid profile, yet plenty of acid, a textural feat! Excellent development. Citrus and pith, with a good phenolic textural play. Nicely balanced, on a lower perceived acid bent for the region. Chalky feel. Plenty of fun. Subtle leesy funk, with great clarity. Fauchaume has a number of Lieux Dits that you'll see on the label: Vaulorent, Fontenay, Vaupulan amongst them.
$110
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Domaine Testut

Domaine Testut Chablis Vielles Vignes 2019

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

The pedigree of this fruit at the Chablis level is pretty bloody good! It's from a 50 year old parcel adjacent to the Grand Cru, Blanchot! Bloody tasty Village. Beautifully weighted and developed. Often at this level Chablis can be thin and raw. Testut here, as with all his wines shows a deft touch in raise the wine and building generosity. A wine that can be hoovered now, it’ll drink well over the next few years. Great flow across your palate, fine, sophisticated, perfect everyday drinking
$67
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Gotta love the full Montée. There's a reason it comes up time and time again in discussions on Chablis! Gotta love the full Montée. There's a reason it comes up time and time again in discussions on Chablis. Check out the interactive map below. Click on the vineyard name and you'll see it's on the same side of the river as the cluster of Grand Cru's and lies right next to Blanchot and Le Clos. Every wine I've had from Testut to date has been a delicious, delicate yet flavourful rendition of
$118
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Domaine Testut Chablis 1er Cru ‘Forêt’ 2019

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

Excellent drinking. Drink this while you wait for the Grenouille to build. Line, length, texture, with a sufficient generosity giving it approachability in youth without adding any of the clumsy bits. Classic, delicious, delicate. Wonderful élévage making for a complete wine. 0.20 ha of 80 year-old vines, the same age as Beugnons. Only replaced with massale selections. A pure and elegant nose features notes of citrus zest, mineral reduction, iodine and hints of algae. There is again
$122
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Gotta love the full Montée. There's a reason it comes up time and time again in discussions on Chablis! Gotta love the full Montée. There's a reason it comes up time and time again in discussions on Chablis. Check out the interactive map below. Click on the vineyard name and you'll see it's on the same side of the river as the cluster of Grand Cru's and lies right next to Blanchot and Le Clos. After trying the 2017 1er Cru Forêts &  GC Grenouille (bought out all remaing stock of those
$118
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$108ea in any 6+
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Showing 107 Delicious Wines!

A discreet application of wood suffuses the restrained and beautifully layered nose of mineral reduction, iodine, tidal pool, white orchard fruit and a vague hint of phenolic character. The super-sleek, dense and intense broad-shouldered flavors possess a palate etching mouthfeel while delivering simply remarkable length on the stony, austere and very dry finale that is akin to rolling small rocks around the mouth. The intensity really builds as it sits on the palate and overall, this beauty is
$1,250
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Domaine Roland Lavantureux Petit Chablis 2020

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

“Here is the only wine that with 100% stainless-steel for all vinification and elevage. All from Lignorelles. That’s a very friendly nose – slightly round and faintly caramel despite tank elevage – an inviting sweetness. A little touch of green in the flavours but also lots of energy and citrus bitters. Very engaging, tasty wine. Long too.” Bill Nanson
$61
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Showing exactly how important vine age is! A step up, an extra zip of salty acid and that mid palate weight with excellent length. Florals, white stone fruit a little citrus pith and plenty of fun. That slight primary edge that disappeared as it opened revealing excellent depth and length with restraint. A little more complexity. Mid palate texture is excellent. Hazelnuts and an extra layer of pleasure here. Excellent.
$67
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Domaine Testut Chablis Vielles Vignes 2019

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

The pedigree of this fruit at the Chablis level is pretty bloody good! It's from a 50 year old parcel adjacent to the Grand Cru, Blanchot! Bloody tasty Village. Beautifully weighted and developed. Often at this level Chablis can be thin and raw. Testut here, as with all his wines shows a deft touch in raise the wine and building generosity. A wine that can be hoovered now, it’ll drink well over the next few years. Great flow across your palate, fine, sophisticated, perfect everyday drinking
$67
$64ea in any 3+
$61ea in any 6+
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Georges Deschamps Chablis 2022

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

A richer more immediately generous iteration than the 2021 yet with a delicacy and elegance. Perfumed fruit ripe gold apple a little lemon oil at play and a salty pop. Delicous long fine, supple. Excellent texture, line and length, impressive élévage and that all important mid-palate weight. Complexed by the long slow ferment and time on lees. Great drinking.
$68
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Showing exactly how important vine age is! Shroomy wet wool funk reminiscent of old school. I think it's a character from low pH high acid whites with a good reduction. Build in depth and length Mid-Palate weight beyond the standard Chablis. Saline. Much more complete wine. Better even flow and drive coming through. The delightful lacing of maple syrup, from a clever élévage adds to the mid-palate weight. A little baking spice and crème pat. A note on the 2021's: The 2021 Laffay's are a bl
$70
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Domaine Roland Lavantureux Chablis 2020

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

“All the domaine’s wines are vinified parcel by parcel – this comes from a single parcel in Lignorelles but a big parcel of 5ha and it’s the biggest cuvée of the domaine. Here starting to see a proportion of older barrels for elevage. A similar roundness and sweet invitation to drink. Mouth- filling, silky – here is a super wine for drinking today! The finish is pure and full of energy – again with lovely citrus-skin complexity. That’s really excellent.” Bill Nanson
$71
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Showing exactly how important vine age is! A step up, an extra zip of salty acid and that mid palate weight with excellent length. Florals, white stone fruit a little citrus pith and plenty of fun. That slight primary edge that disappeared as it opened revealing excellent depth and length with restraint. A little more complexity. Mid palate texture is excellent. Hazelnuts and an extra layer of pleasure here. Excellent.
$72
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$66ea in any 6+
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Domaine Bernard Defaix Chablis 2022

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

This is very good. Defaix has given us a restrained, detailed expression of Chablis. Mineral with juicy fruit, citrus, and most importantly loads of personality. The fruit drive is impressive, balanced by lightning energy and zippy acid. The mouthfeel is superb, long and refined with great length. A cracking Chablis. Challenger for house Chardonnay! Tank fermenting and ageing Chardonnay can come through as a certain primary, unfinished rawness, particularly in the new world. Not so here. Develop
$74
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House Chablis! Exceptional flavour & salty acid profile with a fine texture! From 3 parcels in Lignorelles – vines planted by grandfather – 50-60-year-old vines. Here with 40%-barrel elevage, all the higher crus with 50%. A touch of floral notes over a little vibration of minerality. Wide, slowly mouth-filling, so intense finishing, with width. Ooh, that’s super and with a proper salinity. Bravo! Bill Nanson
$75
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“A more concentrated width of aroma – here with a more overt nod to the barrel elevage. That’s beautifully vibrant and deeply flavoured – plenty of barrel, plenty of concentration. Wait 2-3 years for this great finishing wine – unless you are a fan of creamy-oak in your wine.”  Bill Nanson
$76
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“parcels in Lignorelles – vines planted by grandfather – 50-60-year-old vines. 40% barrel – a mix of sizes but nothing new, indeed about 5-year-old barrels An extra width that’s filled with extra freshness – that’s a great nose. Direct, structured, still with purity and energy and faintly austere too – overtly great villages – what a wine – bravo!” Bill Nanson “Pale lemon, with a beautifully perfumed nose, ripe but stopping short of honeysuckle. The minerals com
$80
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The most mineral of the 1er's This is where it’s at line length precision harmony. Wicked acid yet the fruit to back it. Fine linear, salty, heading more down the citrus line with a little long ferment nuttiness and Crème Patissiere. Great shape. Crystalline purity. There are things happening here. Consumed Oct 2023 Those things have been happening! Over the course of the year a little flesh has been added to the bones, the fermentation artifacts have layered in seamlessly and the b
$93
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The most mineral of the 1er's The funk. Is there again. The cut is there, the step up in acid with the more linear elegant fruit and power over the top. There is something here that gives me a feel of Brézé / Savennieres Chenin from the Loire Valley. A little quince thing happening, baking spice, super chalking acid and a little phenolics offering cleansing texture. Plenty of length to follow.  A note on the 2021's: The 2021 Laffay's are a blast from the classically styled Chablis of the 1
$93
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Domaine Billaud-Simon Chablis Tête d’Or 2019

Chardonnay | France, Burgundy

“A dollop of wood sets off a ripe mix of both white and yellow orchard fruit laced with nuances of iodine and seashore. There is fine mid-palate density to the intense and saline-suffused flavors that terminate in an agreeably clean and dry finish. This could use better depth but since it always seems to age extremely well, more should develop if giving a chance. Worth checking out.❤️ Outstanding ” Burghound
$97
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The hallmark citrus aromas of a fine Côte de Léchet are present on the nose of quinine, oyster shell and poached apple scents. There is fine volume to the delicious medium-bodied flavors that flash ample minerality on the saline, youthfully austere and focused finale. Lovely. Burghound ♥ Outstanding 90-93 Points 🔥 HOT TIP - Drink it at 12-14ºC or even a bit warmer to get the most from it.
$98
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