AOC Chablis: The Pure and Mineral White Wines of Burgundy

The wine region of Chablis, located in the northernmost part of Burgundy, is famous for its white wines made from 100% Chardonnay, which are distinguished by their purity, freshness, and minerality. Thanks to their high acidity and stony characteristics, Chablis wines are renowned for their elegance and complexity. The Kimmeridgian soil, rich in fossilized shells, imparts a saline and chalky character to the wines, making them one of the most distinctive expressions of Chardonnay in the world.

The Chablis Appellation System

Chablis is divided into four main classifications:

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• Petit Chablis
  
• Chablis
  
• Chablis Premier Cru
  
• Chablis Grand Cru
  

Each category represents a different level of quality, with Premier Cru and Grand Cru wines offering the most refined expressions of Chablis.

The Grands Crus of Chablis

There are only seven Grands Crus in Chablis, each producing wines of great depth and excellent aging potential. These vineyards are located on the prime cut of Chablis terroir.

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  Les Clos (24.7 ha): The most famous Grand Cru, Les Clos is recognized for its superb acidity, depth, and richness, but it also stands out for its mineral precision and complex flavors. The great vintages of Les Clos, often capable of aging for 15 to 20 years, offer aromas of apple, honey, and spices as they age.

  
  
  
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  Blanchot (12.2 ha): Located southeast of the other Grands Crus, Blanchot is renowned for producing some of the most delicate, fragrant, and stylish wines of all the Grands Crus. Blanchot wines present a perfect balance between floral aromas and mineral complexity.

  
  
  

The Premiers Crus of Chablis

Chablis also has 40 Premiers Crus, which produce wines with a vivid fruitiness, refreshing acidity, and a subtle minerality. These wines provide an excellent introduction to the unique characteristics of Chablis at a more accessible price.

Vintage Variations

Chablis is a region where vintage variations play a crucial role in the quality of the wines. In good vintages, Chablis can be magical: straw yellow with green reflections, turning to light gold with age. These wines are generally dry, medium-bodied, with a lively acidity and concentrated aromas of apple and minerality that linger long after tasting. In less favorable vintages, the wines may lack the concentration and freshness that Chablis is known for, so it is essential to follow vintage reports.

Food and Wine Pairings

Chablis wines are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes, especially seafood and shellfish. Their refreshing acidity makes them perfect for accompanying oysters, crustaceans, lobster, or even goat cheese, delicately enhancing the flavors of these dishes.