Chablis Champs Royaux
The vintage
The 2023 vintage was characterized by a mild and dry winter, followed by frosts in April, with no major impact on the vines. After a hot and dry month of May, storms in June led to a high but well-managed health pressure by the estate's teams. During the summer, alternating heat and rainfall accelerated the ripening of the grapes despite a veraison slowed by the lack of water in August. The harvest, which began in early September under high temperatures, yielded generous volumes with excellent health conditions.
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 Kimmeridgian marl and clayey limestone. The subsoils are rich in minerals and fossilized oysters, giving the distinctive mineral character to Chablis wines.
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% 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% of the harvest in barrels for 5 to 6 months.
Tasting
A bouquet of great freshness evolving with notes of citrus, white-fleshed fruits, and flowers. Fresh and supple, it is marked by mineral notes, typical of the appellation.
Grapes
Chardonnay
: 100 %