Domaine Moreau-Naudet, 'Vaillons' Chablis 1er Cru, Burgundy, France, 2022

Overview of the Wine
Domaine Moreau-Naudet is now among the top estates for distinctly non-conformist Chablis. Taking cues from legendary producers like Raveneau and Dauvissat, Moreau-Naudet makes ripe but precisely shaped Chablis that combine minerality with deeply concentrated substance. The lean, austere wines that became the norm for this region are less a reflection of the region’s true terroir and more a side-effect of high yield, early picking and machine harvesting.

Moreau-Naudet does the opposite. They harvest later, by hand, and look for a perfect balance of ripeness and freshness when, especially with the recent warm vintages, no chaptalization is needed. This approach in the vineyard is complemented by fully biodynamic farming and meticulous attention in the cellar where they allow nature to do the heavy lifting.

Sadly, winemaker Stephane Moreau suffered an untimely and tragic death in August 2016. When he passed unexpectedly it sent a shock through Burgundy and the wine world beyond. But since then Stephane’s wife, Virginie Moreau-Naudet, has carried on her late husband’s philosophy and style with resounding success. Tasting these wines today we feel inspired and grateful for her and her family’s perseverance.

Biodynamic and Organic.

Grape / Blend
Chardonnay

Origin
Burgundy, France

Tasting Notes
Moreau-Naudet's holdings in Vaillons are around 1.7 hectares from Roncière, Séchet (75 year old vines) and Epinottes. Fermentation is, as always, with natural yeast with up to three months of lees aging. Aged in about 10% oak.

92 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Wafting from the glass with attractive aromas of pear, orange zest, white flowers and freshly baked bread, the Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons is medium to full-bodied, with an elegantly satiny attack that segues into a layered core of bright fruit, concluding with a saline, perfumed finish.

Product size: 750ml