Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaudevey – 2015
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Vineyard Profile
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Domaine Laroche is one of only three proprietors in Les Vaudevey, owning 9.96 hectares (24.61 acres) of the 41.33-hectare (102.13 acres) premier cru vineyard. Planted on steep slopes of 195 to 235 meters (640 to 771 feet) with an eastern to southeastern exposure, the vines enjoy morning to early afternoon sun. They are, therefore, protected from excessive heat and mature slowly, developing a delicate flavor profile.
- Definition: Vaudevey is planted on Kimmeridgian limestone with a very rocky topsoil providing good drainage and aeration. The limestone and clay soil contains a multitude of tiny fossilized oyster shells. This unique soil structure delineates the grand and premier cru areas of Chablis, imparting a finesse to the Chardonnay that is precise, elegant and exceptional.
- Viticulture: One man, one plot: There are more than 30 people who are dedicated to caring for the 90-plus hectares (222.39 acres) of Domaine Laroche vineyards, with each person responsible for only one plot. This tailor-made approach allows them to manage the vineyards with precision, speed and accuracy. Everyone at Domaine Laroche practices “lutte raisonnée,” or “reasoned protection,” (using chemical intervention only when required): The vineyard is plowed to aerate the soil and encourage development of the root system, as well as the organic life in the soil. Vines are pruned and trained by hand, with a strict pruning and debudding regimen. Leaf plucking occurs to aerate the canopy and avoid the development of botrytis, while trellising aerates the grapes and provides them with favorable exposure.
- Vine Age: Planted 1980
- Clones: Sélection massale
- Soil: Vaudevey is planted on Kimmeridgian limestone with a very rocky topsoil providing good drainage and aeration. The limestone and clay soil contains a multitude of tiny fossilized oyster shells. This unique soil structure delineates the grand and premier cru areas of Chablis, imparting a finesse to the Chardonnay that is precise, elegant and exceptional.
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Vintage Report
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If 2015 was an early vintage, we cannot speak about a solar vintage, as was 2006, as it possesses a serious acid vertebral column. The tasting of juices straightaway showed a lot of balance and the delicacy, an impression confirmed after the fermentation where we found precise mouths, without heaviness, and aromatic white flowers. Wines show a beautiful acidity and a concentration which remind those of 2005.
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Vinification
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- Barrel Fermentation: 3 weeks at 17 C (63 F) (66% stainless steel, 34% French oak)
- Aging: 9 months (66% stainless steel, 34% French oak)
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Technical Information
- Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
- Alcohol: 12.5%
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Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Bright gold color
Aroma: Lots of mineral hints, over a layer of lemon peel
Taste: Nervy, Racy, Lively
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Images
Reviews
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Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaudevey – 2015 – 90 points – Vinous
"...Tangy, minerally and light on its feet, with well-delineated lemon, lime and fresh herb flavors dominating. Offers an enticing hint of sweetness that's nicely buffered by the limestone. Made from a cooler, east-facing site, this premier cru practically tastes like it's from a different vintage than the Vaillons. Finishes vibrant and firm."
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Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaudevey – 2015 – 90 points – Decanter
"Lean, tangy nose of apricot and lime. The palate has a good attack and is lean and pungent, It has a crystalline, racy character, displaying tension and vigour. The fruit is a bit subdued now, but there seems to be plenty of it. Good length with a nutty finish."
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Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaudevey – 2015 – 93 points – Wine & Spirits
“… a springtime feel, while ripe lime and tart white grapefruit flavors make a lasting impression. It’s concentrated without weight, notes of salinity and umami hints of enoki mushrooms providing length and breadth to the fruit. Bright and zesty...”
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Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaudevey – 2015 – 90 points – Decanter
"Lean, tangy nose of apricot and lime. The palate has a good attack and is lean and pungent, It has a crystalline, racy character, displaying tension and vigour. The fruit is a bit subdued now, but there seems to be plenty of it..."