Domaine Bernard Defaix Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre 2023

Description

Product Description:Chablis at its most chiselled and vibrant. Drawn from old vines in Chapelot, the prized southeastern slope of Montee de Tonnerre. This 2023 Premier Cru carries the hallmark energy of one of Chablis’ most celebrated terroirs. Long considered the shadow sibling of the Grands Crus, Montee de Tonnerre produces Chardonnay with both mineral drive and layered complexity, and this release shows it in spades. The fruit comes from a trusted grower with whom the Defaix family has worked for two decades, farmed in the same low-intervention, organic-leaning style as their estate vines. Fermented with native yeasts entirely in seasoned barrels (one to five years old), the wine spends 12 months in oak before a further six in stainless steel to tighten and refine. The result is mouth-coating and zesty, with a saline snap that speaks of limestone and sea breeze. It’s a bottling that wears its Premier Cru pedigree without ostentation. Tonic, precise, and already complete, yet capable of unwinding beautifully over the next decade. The Maker Domaine Bernard Defaix was founded in 1959 by Bernard Defaix, and today it is run by his sons, Sylvain and Didier. The estate spans 27 hectares in the Chablis region, with vineyards that include some of the finest Premier Cru sites. The Defaix family is known for its commitment to organic farming, having adopted organic practices in 2009 and officially receiving certification in 2012. The family’s dedication to quality is evident in their small but carefully tended vineyards, where they focus on maintaining soil health and promoting biodiversity. With a focus on minimal intervention, they allow the natural character of the Chablis terroir to shine through in each bottle. The family’s expertise and hands-on approach extend to every aspect of their winemaking process. From vineyard management to fermentation, the Defaix family ensures that each wine is a true reflection of its origins. Their approach to fermentation uses wild yeasts, and the wines are aged in glass-lined tanks, which preserves the freshness and vibrancy that is characteristic of their style. The result is wines that are both expressive and pure, capturing the essence of Chablis and showcasing the region’s unique terroir. Philosophy The Defaix family’s philosophy revolves around producing wines that authentically express the terroir of Chablis. By working in harmony with nature, they produce wines that are fresh, vibrant, and full of character. With a deep understanding of their land and a commitment to organic farming, they ensure that their wines reflect the purity and complexity of the Chablis vineyards. Their minimal intervention approach allows the wines to evolve naturally, with an emphasis on balance, expression, and respect for the environment. This philosophy ensures that each bottle captures the true essence of Chablis, while remaining true to the family’s legacy of craftsmanship. Tasting NotesNOSE– Citrus & salineCitrus zest, toasted almond, and a distinct maritime edge.PALATE– Crisp & layeredZingy fruit, briny mineral drive, and subtle nutty depth.FINISH– Focused & persistentDry, stony length with a lingering vibrancy. Reviews & Accolades”Didier calls this ‘more tonic’, and it does have a refreshing, feel-good vibrancy. Detailed on the nose with forward scents of citrus zest, toasted almonds and sea shore, more of the same follows on the doubly intense palate. Crisply dry and already very complete, this is one not to miss in the line-up.” – Christy Canterbury MW, Tim Atkin Burgundy Report, 94 points Finer Details:Style – White WineVarietal – ChardonnayCountry – FranceRegion – ChablisVintage – 2023Bottle Size – 750ml