Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons Vieilles Vignes Samuel Billaud 2023

Country
France
Region
Chablis
Producer
Samuel Billaud
Grape(s)
Chardonnay (100%)
Type
White
Style
Mineral
Oaked Style
Lightly oaked
Body Style
Medium bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Bone dry
Alcohol Content
13%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
Organic practices
Sustainable
Yes-sustainable practices
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No

Region

Only 100 miles south of Paris, Chablis represents the northern limit of Burgundy`s wine regions, centred around the town of Auxerre. The soils are predominantly limestone and chalk, perfect for the Chardonnay grape, the only variety allowed in Chablis. Careful siting of south facing vineyards enables the vignerons to produce classic, dry, and steely wines. The most complex of these are produced from the seven Grand Cru vineyards which are all located on the northern slopes that overlook the town of Chablis itself. The Premier Cru vineyards are scattered around Chablis on the slopes of the valleys and here produce excellent quality wines with a little less intensity.

Producer

Samuel Billaud left his family domaine of Domaine Baillaud-Simon to found his own label. A talented winemaker whose wines speak for themselves; Samuel does not own the vineyards but has comtracts on various plots of land which he manages himself as well as vinifying the wines. His taut, coiled Chardonnays lie at the tight, mineral end of the Chablis spectrum. He achieves this through early picking, organic farming methods, minimal use of oak, and long ageing on lees.
Tasting Notes
Made from a parcel of 60 year old vines on the prestigious Vaillons premier cru plot. The mature vines deliver exceptional concentration while retaining freshness and precision. Aromas of lemon curd, white blossom and ripe orchard fruit lead to a layered palate of citrus, peach and chalky minerality. Bright acidity and subtle saline notes provide remarkable balance, carrying through to a long, refined and intensely mineral finish.
Food
Serve with richer white fish like turbot, or with poultry dishes.