Chablis 2018
A mineral Chardonnay!
Origin
The Chablis vineyard is unique in Burgundy and exhibits very distinctive characteristics. The soil, which ranges in color from white to light gray, is composed of marl and limestone marl from the Upper Jurassic. For this village appellation, the grapes were harvested in demarcated areas of 17 villages including the village of Chablis. This appellation covers 3,425 hectares and is the largest AOC in Burgundy.
We have selected a cuvée from several plots from the south-central part of the appellation: Chablis, Chichée, Courgis and Bergu.
Viticulture
Grape variety: chardonnay
Soils: Jurassic clay-limestone.
Orientation: multiple.
Pruning: Guyot system
Vinification
Harvest date: from 10 to 20 September 2018.
The grapes were handpicked and were sorted a first time in the vineyard and a second time when they arrived at the winery.
At the winery: The whole bunches of grapes were gently pressed for 2½ hours. The temperature of the must was brought down to 12°C. Beginning of fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats.
Ageing
Maturation: 40% of the must in fermentation is transferred to Burgundy barrels. Barrels of 1, 2 and 3 wines, for 11 months aging on lees.
Barrels: Oak of French origin toasted at low temperatures for a long time to impart a subtle, delicate touch of oak were used.
Bottling
Bottling: in December 2019.
Number of bottles: 3,842.
Vintage
2018, abundance and excellence
After a winter that was almost too mild, the vintage was notable for two contrasting periods. Spring was sunny and totally devoid of frost, despite some localized episodes of hail, which had major impact on certain plots on the Côte de Nuits, which were hit in June. Then the summer was dry and hot, blocking the ripening process in places. Picking began early, with exceptionally abundant fruit in tip-top condition, offering the potential for some very fine wines.
Ageing potential: from 3 to 6 years.
Tasting notes
With a beautiful golden color, this wine develops intense aromas of citrus and exotic fruits on the nose, also accompanied by notes of buttered bread. On the palate, this wine is on the freshness which is counterbalanced by a little roundness provided by the aging in wood. Beautiful saline and persistent finish.
