Bernard Defaix Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre 2023

Bernard Defaix Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre is drawn from old vines in Chapelot, the lieu-dit whose south-east aspect mirrors that of the neighbouring grands crus.

Montée de Tonnerre lies on the right bank of the Serein on Kimmeridgian marl, and is widely held to be the first among Chablis premiers crus. This cuvée comes from old vines in Chapelot, a twenty-hectare section of the climat farmed by Raveneau, Moreau-Naudet, Billaud-Simon and others. It is the exception in the Defaix range, made from purchased fruit rather than estate vines: Didier Defaix has worked with the same grower for twenty years, and while those vineyards are not certified, the family is satisfied the farming matches their own. Fermentation runs on native yeasts entirely in used barrels of one to five years of age, with regular bâtonnage through the élevage. The wine spends twelve months in barrel and a further six in stainless steel before bottling under a Diam closure, which suits the taut, stony style the site gives.

Approachable on release but built to reward five to ten years in bottle. Serve at 10-12°C with Sydney rock oysters, roast chicken or a well-aged Comté.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.