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2021

Chablis Domaine

Chablis Domaine
AOC Chablis, Bourgogne, Chablis, France

The vintage

The summer-like temperatures caused an early budbreak during the week of March 29, leaving fragile buds exposed. The black frost nights from April 6 onward burned new buds each day. Between April 3 and April 24, temperatures dropped below zero on 17 nights. Despite the implementation of protective measures (sprinkling, candles, and heating cables), the vineyard was severely affected by the frost and struggled to resume growth. A rise in temperatures in June helped make up for the delay. Mid-June flowering was rapid, and growth was vigorous, although the vines were not very fruitful. Prolonged summer rains, along with the effects of the frost, slowed down the ripening of the grapes. Harvesting began on September 17, a reasonable date compared to previous rather early vintages.

Location

The vines located in the Chablis appellation are situated on a Kimmeridgian subsoil and benefit from an ideal exposure, providing conditions conducive to the production of a great wine.

Terroir

The appellation extends on both sides of the Serein River, on a soil composed of marl and clayey limestone. The subsoils are rich in minerals and fossilized oysters, giving the distinctive mineral character to Chablis wines. The estate covers 46.8 hectares, located in the extension of the Premier Crus.

Winemaking

Application of the principle of gravity to avoid any pumping, which could alter the quality of the wine. Short pneumatic pressing (1.5 to 2 hours) for a gentle separation between the solid and liquid parts of the grapes. Very light static racking to retain enough fine lees for the alcoholic and malolactic fermentations to occur naturally. The musts are placed in small stainless steel tanks. 5 to 10% of the cuvée is vinified in French oak barrels (averaging 6 years old). Aging for 10 to 12 months in small stainless steel tanks to maintain freshness, and 5 to 10% in French oak barrels for 5 to 6 months.

Grapes

100 %
Chardonnay

Tasting

A bouquet of great refinement, evolving with notes of citrus, white-fleshed fruit, and flowers. Fresh and supple, this wine is marked by mineral notes, typical of the appellation.

More about the domain

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Domaine William Fèvre