Domaine Louis Michel & Fils Chablis Premier Cru Butteaux Vielle Vignes 2022

This beautiful white wine is made by the Michel family, who has been making wines in the heart of Chablis since the 19th century. A firmly rooted sense of excellence is passed down from generation to generation. Louis Michel & Fils has always been a family business, and is managed today by Guillaume Michel, who takes great pride inperpetuating the Domaine’s ethos.

The unique terroir of this land consists of Kimmeridgian and Portlandian subsoil, a semi-continental climate and an emblematic grape, Chardonnay: these are the ingredients that create the magic of the Chablis terroir. Chablis boasts unique soil that is made up of marl, limestone and oyster fossils dating back 150 million years. This soil plays an important role in winemaking, because it brings even greater variety to the aromatic complexity of the wines, and provides the minerality that is so typical of Chablis. Located in northern Burgundy, the vineyards of Chablis are subjected to cold winters, late springs prone to frosts, hot and dry summers, and sometimes very significant diurnal temperature variations, particularly with the changing of seasons. This climate is certainly challenging for both the vineyard and the growers, but has a clear benefit in making Chablis a truly fine terroir.

The family vineyard, whose vines are 45 years old on average, is located in the heart of the original Chablis terroir, on the most prestigious parcels within a radius of two kilometres from the winery. This proximity between vineyard and winery is a huge advantage during the harvest: the fruit retains its high quality throughout its short journey to the pressing room. The Domaine’s vineyards cover all four appellations: Chablis Grand Cru, Premier Cru, Chablis and Petit Chablis, offering the whole range of aromas that this unique wine can produce.

The Domaine makes three prestigious Grand Crus – including the legendary Grenouilles – as well as seven Premier Crus. The vineyards of the Domaine are concentrated on the first slopes to be farmed by Cistercian monks during the 11th century. This premier cru wine derives from four parcels that are spread over the Butteaux slopes. They are the furthest from the winery, at a distance of just two kilometres. The wines that come from these vineyards deliver wonderful complexity on the palate. They are characterful wines that are much loved by enthusiasts.

Aged in stainless steel tanks, for at least 12 months, this Chablis sees no oak aging so that the beautiful flavors of the soils shine through. Look for a complex nose, with baked apple aromas, toasted notes and sensations of wet stone and minerals. The palate is vibrant, with a mouthwatering finish.