Moreau’s village Chablis is drawn mostly from 20 to 30 year old vineyards in Préhy and Courgis, both in the south of Chablis. Then, there are parcels in Chablis and Chichée (under the Premier Cru Vaugiraut). All up, the domaine has the luxury of working with 30 parcels scattered across the appellation, representing a variety of soil structures and exposures. All the fruit from the younger vines is sold off in bulk, which perennially helps Moreau deliver a Chablis greater than the sum of its parts. The Chablis was picked over various dates, depending on the plot. The fruit was subject to a very gentle four-hour press, and the juice was fermented with natural yeasts (a rarity in Chablis). It was raised mostly in tank, yet the élevage was unhurried. This spent 20 months on lees, considerably longer than most Chablis of this level. These traditional methods, along with hand-harvesting, the quality of the terroir, low yields and the full ripeness levels at which the fruit is harvested help to explain the mouth coating texture, salty depths and the quality that is on offer.

Domaine Jean Dauvissat Père & Fils manages 22 hectares of vineyards in Chablis, spanning 7 communes with 53 distinct parcels in Chablis and Chablis Premier Cru. In 2009, Fabien assumed control from his father, having undergone training in Beaune and Dijon, culminating in a Masters focused on Bordeaux. While the Domaine originated with Fabien's grandfather in La Chapelle-Vaupelteigne, it was Fabien who continued the legacy by emphasizing bottling and labeling over bulk selling. His philosophy revolves around profound respect for the terroir, addressing each vineyard and parcel individually to showcase the unique characteristics of each site. Moreover, he champions environmental respect, minimizing interventions whenever feasible. Vinification occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel, with premier crus maturing for approximately two years. Fabien is a promising, young Chablis producer making strides in the industry. Domaine Jean Dauvissat Pere & Fils is renowned for crafting rich Chablis wines that strike an impeccable balance between minerality and fruit. With a commitment to eschew oak, their wines undergo an extensive aging period in contemporary stainless steel tanks before bottling, allowing for nuanced development. The classic Cote de Lechet epitomizes the epitome of mineral-laden Chablis. This premier cru Cote de Lechet embodies Left Bank precision, featuring razor-sharp acidity that tantalizes the palate. A distinctive floral introduction and hints of gun-flint smokiness characterize the mid-palate, while the finish is marked by vibrant berry fruit and enduring minerality. Domaine Jean Dauvissat Pere & Fils is a rising star worth keeping an eye on in the world of Chablis

Simonnet-Febvre has a dedication to quality Chardonnay that is unsurpassed in the Chablis region. Old vines are entrenched in limestone soil that produce some of the most evocative examples available. Clean, zesty citrus lines of flavour all surrounded by the unmistakable line of acid so prevalent in this classically styled wines. Superb!

Many of us wine drinkers have a soft spot for Chablis. Its with great reason too, given our climate and affi nity with seafood. A little over two months ago, we were thrilled when this wine hit our shores for the first time following a selective buying trip. Once again, it showcased its undisputed quality and notoriety in our tasting sessions. Established in 1850, this small family owned domain is the proven choice of so many when it comes to great Chablis. The estate comprises a mere 45 hectares of vines scattered throughout the region, grown on the famous Kimmeridgian limestone soils. Textbook in expression and style, super fi ne and elegant, this 2013 has perfectly poised, piercing acidity. This drives superb length of flavour on the featherweight light palate. Is there a better oyster wine?

A fresh acidity with a very pretty mineral structure.

Green gold in colour, almond and fresh butter nose, full and supple palate, this wine is the ladies' favourite.