Domaine Bernard Defaix Chablis 1er Cru Cote de Lechet 2023

Description

Product Description Sun-soaked precision from one of Chablis’ most stony slopes. The 2023 Cote de Lechet from Domaine Bernard Defaix comes from a steep, south-east-facing Premier Cru site on the right bank of the Serein River—one of the sunniest and rockiest terroirs in the region. The vines, averaging 35 years old, are rooted in classic Kimmeridgian limestone strewn with fossilised seashells, producing a wine that marries ripe, generous fruit with crystalline minerality. Certified organic since 2012, the Defaix family hand-harvested the fruit at optimal ripeness before fermenting in stainless steel to preserve purity, with a portion aged in seasoned oak for texture. Extended lees contact adds a subtle creaminess that weaves through the wine’s vivid, saline frame. In 2023, Cote de Lechet’s sunny exposure has yielded a Chablis that is both full and finely etched: lemon curd and candied citrus meet poached pear and crushed chalk, with gunflint and sea spray lending a savoury, mouth-watering close. It’s a wine of breadth and cut—delicious now with fine seafood, but with the structure to evolve gracefully for decades. Tasting Notes NOSE – Bright & flinty Candied lemon, poached pear, orchard blossom, wet stone, and a whisper of gunflint. PALATE – Textured & incisive Lemon curd and tangy grapefruit over a creamy mid-palate, balanced by vibrant acidity and a chalky core. FINISH – Saline & expansive Long, persistent, and mouth-watering, widening in power as it lingers. Reviews & Accolades “Yellow citrus with mineral clarity… an incisive start, finishing vibrant and widening.” – Bill Nanson, Burgundy Report “Lemon curd, warm milk, crushed chalk; creamy yet dry with zesty acidity.” – Christy Canterbury MW (for Tim Atkin), 93 points Burghound 90–93 points: Candied citrus, poached pear, shellfish, wet stone; powerful and saline.” Finer Details: Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – France Region – Chablis Vintage – 2023 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13%