Why it matters
The producer
Growers pick their grapes and press them before supplying unfermented must, the grape juice before fermentation, to La Chablisienne. The Chablis cooperative controls fermentation and winemaking from that point. About 70% of its total production is exported internationally.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Chablis is the place named by the cooperative and its wines. Petit Chablis and Chablis sit below Premier Cru and Grand Cru in the appellation hierarchy. Premier Cru and Grand Cru identify higher vineyard categories, so the label carries a site classification as well as a place name.
Wines to know
The range in view
The range includes Petit Chablis La Chablisienne, Chablis Le Finage La Chablisienne and Chablis Premier Cru Grande Cuvée. Grand Cru wines also form part of the range. Petit Chablis and Chablis are mostly fermented and aged in stainless steel. Premier Cru and Grand Cru wines are vinified and aged partly in 228 litre barriques and partly in stainless steel.
Petit Chablis La Chablisienne is an unwooded Chardonnay with tangy texture, citrus and oyster shell flavours, and a pithy finish. Fourchaume Premier Cru opens with mineral flint, white flowers and acacia. Lemon zest and oyster shell bring citrus and marine notes, while vibrant acidity drives a texture that is powerful.