A buyer’s guide to Chablis

By

Chablis: know your vintages

2015

High quality but very different stylistically to 2014. Consistent sunshine without excessive heat resulted in a fleshy, approachable character. Hail at the end of August complicated life for growers without affecting quality. Concentrated wines which will age well, with typical Chablis character emerging over time.

2014

Great vintage. Cool weather led to a long growing season, giving dense wines with great purity and powerful acidity. A real expression of true Chablis terroir and character. Drink Petit Chablis and Chablis now; premier/ grand cru need more time to shine

2013

Overshadowed by surrounding years – an early drinking vintage from a very small crop. Unusually, most vineyards saw the very rapid onset of botrytis which has imparted wines with more than a hint of tropical fruit. More variable than recent vintages.

2012

Another great success, showing all the best characters of other high-quality vintages – 2014, 2010 and 2008. Concentration, purity and very well balanced acidity have resulted in wines with great ageing potential. Keep grands and top premiers crus.

2011

The last ‘normal’ vintage in volume terms, 2011 is lighter than those around it. Attractive wines which can be enjoyed now across all quality levels. Petit Chablis needs drinking up.

2010

A great vintage with powerful, concentrated wines and high acidity. Grands/premiers crus will certainly improve, while village Chablis is at its peak now.

Translated by ICY

All rights reserved by Future plc. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Decanter.

Only Official Media Partners (see About us) of DecanterChina.com may republish part of the content from the site without prior permission under strict Terms & Conditions. Contact china@decanter.com to learn about how to become an Official Media Partner of DecanterChina.com.

Comments

Your_name:
Submit