Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2009
Chablis Premier Cru Fourchaume 2009
The Chablis region once again benefited from splendid conditions in 2009. After a cold winter and a warm, wet spring, the weather settled in the summer months and harvest took place in the early autumn in near perfect conditions. The resulting wines are characterised by richness of fruit and a forward, accessible style with the trademark steeliness and minerality still present.
Your exclusive Chablis Vieilles Vignes comes from 70-year-old vines grown on the famous chalky, Kimmeridge clay soil. Naturally low yields from these old vines make for concentrated flavours and more interesting wine. Your 2009 vintage exhibits a fruity nose with white flowers, stone fruit and minerals. The palate is fresh and elegant with ripe pear and apple flavours, filling out mid-palate with yellow plum and stone-fruit flavours. Although delicious now, it can be enjoyed over the next couple of years. Chablis makes a very versatile food wine and will match a wide range of fish dishes. Try it with seared scallops or baked crab for a special match. For cheese, it works wonderfully with washed-rind varieties like Époisses or Soumaintrain.
Your Premier Cru 2009 comes from the clay and limestone slopes of the famous Fourchaume vineyard, which is considered by many to be the finest of all the Premier Cru locations as it is effectively an extension of the great Grand Cru vineyards. It has similar white flower and mineral characteristics to the Vieilles Vignes, but there is a juicy richness and depth to the palate which will blossom over the next two to three years. Superb, elegant and stylish Chablis such as this requires a special dish – try it with grilled lobster in a creamy, buttery sauce or poulet de Bresse with truffles … delicious!