Region: Chablis, Burgundy

Grape: Chardonnay 

Farming: Sustainable 

Tasting Note: This whafts from the glass with notes of sea air, ginger, pink grapefruit, yuzu, jasmine and violet. There is a fresh spiciness on the plate mingled with lemon zest. A fabulous contrast of mineral versus opulent. 

Background: Vaillons is situated on the left bank, facing the grands crus across the valley. It comes from 5 separate climats: Epinottes, Roncières, Séchet, Chatains and Beugnons, with vines averaging 45 years old. Ageing is 25% oak, the remainder in stainless steel.

The Kimmeridgian "exogyra virgula" limestone is particularly present here in the sub-soils, often in large compacted slabs. On the surface there is some clay which lends the wine richness and a firm structure. Vaillons has a very sunny exposure and its valley is sheltered from the north winds. It is delicious young and does not have the habitual austerity of young Chablis wines. With age it loses the floral perfume and takes on a strong menthol and oyster shell vibrancy. A beguiling wine, to be enjoyed at many points during its lifetime.

Serving:  Cold - but not too cold! (10–12°C).