Françoise and Denis Clair — Excellence and Terroir in Chablis
Background
Françoise and Denis Clair are a passionate couple continuing their family tradition in Burgundy, specifically in the Chablis appellation. The estate is well known for authentic expertise, terroir respect, and rigorous work spanning several decades.
Vineyard
The estate covers about 15 hectares across premier Chablis terroirs, including Grand Cru, Premier Cru, and village-level plots. The typical Kimmeridgian soils lend a distinct minerality to the wines. The main grape variety is Chardonnay.
Philosophy & Viticulture
Françoise and Denis prioritize environmentally friendly viticulture with sustainable practices and minimal intervention. Harvesting is manual to preserve grape integrity. Their goal is to reveal pure terroir character by limiting inputs and supporting soil health.
Winemaking
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Manual harvesting with strict sorting.
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Gentle pressing to preserve finesse.
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Natural fermentation with indigenous yeasts.
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Aging in stainless steel tanks and partly in old oak barrels to maintain freshness and minerality.
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Little to no bâtonnage to keep wine vibrancy.
Wine Style
Their wines are known for elegance, freshness, and aromatic purity, with mineral, floral, and citrus notes and a fine tension on the palate. Balanced structure allows harmonious aging while remaining enjoyable young.
Signature Wines
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Chablis Grand Cru: powerful and structured, expressing intense minerality.
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Chablis Premier Cru: finesse and elegance with fruity and floral bouquet.
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Chablis Village: lively, fresh, easy to enjoy.
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Petit Chablis: light and approachable, great as an aperitif or with seafood.
A Domain to Discover
Françoise and Denis Clair represent the best of traditional Chablis, combining family passion, respect for nature, and technical mastery. The estate offers authentic wines that are precise, elegant, and true to their unique terroir.