Why it matters
The producer
Benoît joined the domaine in 1999 after studying at the Wine College in Beaune and earning a national oenology diploma in Dijon. He is the 13th generation, and the domaine has 26 hectares of vineyards. The family has cultivated vines in Chablis for nearly 400 years, with vineyard ownership traceable to at least 1620.
Benoît believes the best wines are not made in new oak barrels. Each wine receives vinification treatment suited to its terroir, with cellar decisions adjusted to the individual wine.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Chablis is the appellation named on the village wine, while Premier Cru bottles carry a named vineyard level within the same appellation. Premier Cru identifies a classified vineyard site, narrowing the label from the village name to a more specific place.
Montmains has clay rich ground that brings substantial roundness. It is the domaine's richest and deepest Premier Cru.
Wines to know
The range in view
The range includes Chablis Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin, Chablis Premier Cru Vaillons Domaine Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin, and Chablis Premier Cru Montmains Domaine Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin.
The village Chablis is 100% Chardonnay, pressed pneumatically, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and made entirely in stainless steel. The 2024 vintage has green apple, peach, herbs, grilled citrus, and mineral notes. Vaillons is a classical wine with white flowers and sea air. Montmains brings yellow fruits, apricot, hazel, and roast almond, with a concentrated palate.