Chablis Champs Royaux
The vintage
2024 was a vintage that left a lasting impression. After a particularly mild February, March continued to be mild with very wet conditions. April brought two nights of frost and a first episode of hail, which was not serious. A very heavy hailstorm struck the Chablis vineyards on 1 May, severely affecting the left bank. May and June saw very fluctuating temperatures, which slowed down flowering, while alternating rain and thunderstorms led to high mildew pressure. Hail struck again at the end of July, giving way to a drier and warmer August. September began mildly, allowing the grapes to ripen. The harvest began on 20 September in good conditions. The quality was there, but this succession of climatic hazards had a significant impact on volumes.
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.
Alcohol content
12,5
Grapes
Chardonnay
: 100 %