The Wine VaultChablis
Pure, mineral-driven Chardonnay with no or minimal oak. Flinty, steely character from Kimmeridgian limestone soils. Ranges from Petit Chablis to Grand Cru.
Country
France
Climate
Cool continental, northernmost outpost of Burgundy. Frost is a constant risk
Key grapes
Classification
Four levels: Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru (40 vineyards), Grand Cru (7 vineyards on one slope).
What to eat
Oysters, escargots, Chaource cheese, andouillette sausage, and gougères (cheese puffs).
Fun fact
Chablis soils contain fossilized Exogyra virgula oyster shells from 150 million years ago, which may contribute to the wine’s famous minerality.