Domaine Billaud-Simon

Bourgogne, France

Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaillons — 2021

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  • Introduction

    • Vaillons is derived from the term “vallon”, meaning “small valley”. The term “valson” was also used previously. “Vaillons” originates from the Latin “vallis” or “valles” meaning an “elongated area between two raised zones.”

  • Vineyard Profile

    • Viticulture: Currently undergoing Organic Conversion
    • Size: 2.95 ha
    • Elevation: Right bank
    • Exposure: South/Southeast
  • Vintage Report

    • The 2021 winter was very classic with average rainfall levels. In late March, the temperatures were much higher than the seasonal average (27°C). Bud burst was expected in mid-April although occurred much earlier (30 March). The cold weather made a sharp return and lasted for a long time with severe frosts (as low as -8°C) for seven nights on the 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13 and 14 April. Our teams acted admirably in order to protect the newly formed buds. The left bank of the Serein river and the upper plateau were the most impacted (1er Cru Vaillons, Petit Chablis). Flowering took place in mid-June and was quick and heterogeneous. Summer was cool and humid aside from late August and early September.

  • Vinification

    • Hand harvested to preserve the quality of the fruit. They are manually sorted on a vibrating sorting table to retain only the healthiest fruit. The grapes are drained naturally before being pressed using a pneumatic press to gently extract the juices and conserve as much aroma as possible. Static cold settling of the musts for 12 to 24 hours in stainless steel vats to obtain a bright, clear juice. Alcoholic fermentation followed by malolactic fermentation, both natural, in stainless steel vats.

    • Aging: 14 to 16 months in stainless steel vats with, if necessary, some time spent in French oak barrels. The aging process preserves freshness and minerality whilst bringing complexity and body to the wine. The wine is racked twice before being bottled in the end of Autumn.
  • Technical Information

    • Varietal Composition: Chardonnay
    • Alcohol: 13%
  • Tasting Notes

    • Bright, clear hue with attractive golden tinges. This Premier Cru offers remarkable aromatic complexity with aromas of ripe citrus and white flowers. The palate is round and seductive with a lively attack. Excellent length and a refined aromatic persistence combining fruity notes and a delicate acidity. Pleasant sensation of freshness.