Chablis Grand Cru

These are the biggest, richest and most complex Chablis. Together they cover a total of 100ha – just 2% of the appellation. At their best can match the quality of a Grand Cru Chardonnay from the Côte d’Or, often at half the price.

They may lack their southern neighbour’s opulence but they share their intensity and have a nervy minerality that set them apart. Unexpressive in youth they should ideally be aged for 10 years and can mature up to 30 years. Styles vary according to producer, with some maturing and fermenting in stainless steel while others use barrels, sometimes even new oak.

All seven Grand Crus are grouped together on a single south-west facing hill just north of the town. La Moutonne is an unofficial 8^th Grand Cru straddling Preuses and Vaudésir, and is allowed to use the name on its label. The rich, fine Les Clos and the intense, spicy Vaudésir are generally considered to be the best, and are certainly the most full-bodied.

The delicate Blanchots and the racy Grenouilles are the most aromatic, while the Preuses is full, complex and the least minerally. Valmur is fragrant, rich and smooth while La Moutonne is elegant and incredibly expressive. The vibrant Bougros tends to be the junior member of the group but in the right hands can also be very good.

Recommended Producers: Billaud-Simon, Duplessis, J.-P. & Benoit Droin.