Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots – 2022
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Introduction
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WINERY Founded in 1850, Domaine Laroche is one of the largest owners of Premier and Grand Cru vineyards in Chablis and has led movements to raise the quality of the appellation with the creation of a charter of excellence for the Grand Cru producers. Today, Domaine Laroche still produces and ages its Premiers and Grands Crus in the historical cellars of its headquarters, the Obédiencerie.
WINE The flagship Grand Cru of Domaine Laroche offers much finesse and charm. Blanchots take its name from the white clays that are very present on this exceptionally steep hillside. A delight for paleontology enthusiasts and for the vines, an ideal combination that retains water in depth to feed the roots. The South-East exposure and the presence of clay allow for slow maturation, without degradation of the aromas.
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Vineyard Profile
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Domaine Laroche owns 4.56 hectares of this Grand Cru (11.65 ha in total), about one-third of the total surface of this growth. Les Blanchots is a unique terroir made of a layer of white clay on Kimmeridgian limestone with ammonites.
- Appellation: Chablis Grand Cru AOC
- Location: Bourgogne
- Viticulture: Vegan
- Size: 4.56 ha
- Vine Age: 50 years
- Soil: Kimmeridgian limestone
- Exposure: Southeast
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Vintage Report
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The 2022 harvest had early frosts in April, but the impact was minimal. Despite the hot and dry summer, timely rainfalls during the vine’s growth stages helped. Harvesting started on August 25th, based on estimated blossoming, which maintained great minerality in the wines. Our vineyard managed water stresses well. The initial juices were well-balanced and precise. The grapes had thick skins this year due to the climate, so we focused on the core pressing to preserve their brightness. Overall, the 2022 vintage is abundant and high quality.
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Vinification
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Hand harvesting and sorting at the winery. Gentle pressing at low-pressure to extract press core only. Alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in 70% French oak barrels and 30% in stainless steel. 16 months aging on fine lees in the historical cellars from the IXth century at Obédiencerie.
- Barrel Aging: 16 months in 70% French oak barrels, 30% stainless steel
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 12.5%
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Tasting Notes
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Minerality and aromatic finesse. White flowers, shocked/ wet limestone, elegance and delicate fragrance. Noblesse.
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Images
Reviews
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Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots — 2022 – Wine Enthusiast – 94 Points
"While this wine initially exhibits reduction, it quickly unveils layers of complexity. Currently restrained yet promising, the concentrated nose reveals citrus, Bosc pear, acacia, and stone. The palate is round and generous, showcasing ample stone, white mushroom, and salinity. Piercing acidity awakens the palate, delivering a wealth of sensations. It should benefit from additional cellaring through 2028+ to reveal its full depth."
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Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots — 2022 – Vinous – 93+ Points
"The 2022 Chablis Les Blanchots Grand Cru has a slight reduction on the nose that takes time to shift. It eventually reveals a nuanced bouquet with white linen, Granny Smiths and light flinty aromas. The palate is very well balanced with a slightly tangy entry. There’s good depth and raciness, just the right amount of bitterness to get the saliva flowing and ample weight on the finish. This is a classy Grand Cru that will just require time in bottle."
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Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots — 2022 – Wine Spectator – 91 Points
"Defined by bracing acidity, featuring flavors of white flowers, apple, lemon and stone. Sleek and precise, these white lingers, echoing the citrus and mineral notes."