CHABLIS 1ER CRU VAILLON 2023 - CHRISTIAN MOREAU

Christian Moreau’s Chablis 1er Cru Vaillon 2023 embodies the essence of a great Chablis. It boasts accentuated acidity, freshness, and a distinctive minerality. However, what truly sets it apart is its discreet and very well integrated oak, bargain price, and an impressive 92 points from Tim Atkin.

Domaine Christian Moreau, founded in 1814 by Jean-Joseph Moreau, is renowned for producing exceptional Chablis wines. Christian Moreau dedicated his life to crafting wines that truly capture the essence of the Chablis terroir. His son, Fabien, took on the immense responsibility of carrying on the legacy of the previous five generations, adding his own unique touch to the family’s rich wine heritage. In 2001, Fabien inherited the winery, and in 2013, he made a significant milestone by converting the entire vineyard to organic cultivation.

Christian Moreau’s Chablis 1er Cru Vaillon 2023 originates from one of the largest vineyards in the Chablis Premier Cru category, Vaillon, which translates to “small valley.” The vineyard’s exposure to the sun, the high concentration of Kimmeridgian limestone in its subsoil (rich in marine fossils), and the average age of the five different parcels of the vineyard (63-73), all contribute to the authenticity of Chablis in a unique way.

The harvest was done manually, and for 55% of the wine, fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks. The remaining 45% was aged for eight months in French oak barrels (second, third and fourth use), with new barrels making up less than 5%. This ageing process, coupled with the malolactic conversion, gave the wine an elegant and creamy texture. After bottling, the wine rested for up to 16 months before being released to the market and ready for your enjoyment!

Christian Moreau Chablis 1er Cru Vaillon 2023, is so elegant that you will not believe how excellent the balance of freshness, juicy fruit, structure and oak can be, without ever covering the character of Chablis. Tim Atkin’s 92 points confirm both the result and its immediate placement in your conservatorship!

In the glass it is bright lemon. It has very elegant aromas of lemon blossom, green apple, lemon, pear, lime and characteristic notes of wet stone. Hints of vanilla, toasted bread, and nutmeg emerge, adding depth to the complex character.

On the palate it has a medium (+) body, sharp acidity, a discreet creamy texture and juicy fresh fruit. Lime, lemon, grapefruit and citron prevail, with green apple, pear and white-fleshed peach completing the flavors. The mineral character is expressed with a salty sensation, which creates a pleasant and long-lasting aftertaste.