Why it matters
The producer
Lamblin et Fils puts Chablis's regional, Premier Cru and Grand Cru levels beside Bourgogne Pinot Noir and Chardonnay Pays d'Oc. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the main grapes across the range. The family business was founded in 1690 and remains under family control.
The house also works as a négociant, combining its own supply with sourced supply. That model allows the range to move from Chablis whites to Pinot Noir and a separate Pays d'Oc Chardonnay while keeping the family business at its centre.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Maligny lies at the northern edge of Chablis's Kimmeridgian limestone soils, in the region's northernmost village. The home base is about 8 km north of Chablis. Kimmeridgian limestone is the pale calcareous ground associated with the area, while Chablis is built around Chardonnay.
On the label, Chablis is divided into AC, Premier Cru and Grand Cru levels. Premier Cru and Grand Cru identify higher vineyard categories, while AC covers the broader appellation.
Wines to know
The range in view
Lamblin's Chablis wines run from AC through Premier Cru and Grand Cru. Chablis Barrel Fermented is the barrel-fermented bottle in the range, with delicate exotic fruit on the nose and a rounded, gently lively palate marked by vanilla, subtle woody notes and fine minerality. The wine has good balance and length.
Bourgogne Pinot Noir brings strawberry, cherry, blackcurrant and blueberry in a light red style, followed by a fluid, light mouthfeel. Its ageing potential is 2 to 5 years. Chardonnay Pays d'Oc is rich and intense, with freshness, exotic fruit and white flowers.