2016 Chablis: fine and ripe wines in tiny quantities
Character building is the best way to describe farming on Burgundy's northerly outpost of chalk and minerality. Over the last five or six years many growers have lost almost half of their crop through frost and hail and this in an area of Burgundy which represents great value. But if the downside has been the quantity - or indeed the lack of fruit, then the upside has to have been the maintenance both of morale and especially of quality and value. In 2016 all the aspects of a vigneron's life were challenged. They had to be both the best and most hands-on farmers, but their skills and judgement regarding picking dates and winemaking were also seriously tested.
We're delighted to report that our growers responded magnificently to the challenge, though I can't honestly say we're greatly surprised by that. Benoit Droin and others with even less wine have fabulous track records and we're very pleased that our excellent relationship with the Droins has given us enough wine to offer. Though you'll notice there's no Mont de Milieu or Fourchaume - two of the wines he didn't make in 16.
In terms of style, the 2016s have given us ripe fruit with good intensity and finely balanced acidity. The richness is finely cut with minerality and many of these wines will be excellent to drink early, though I expect the grands crus to age gracefully as well. But scarcity is almost as pressing a driver as quality this vintage and if you love Chablis, then early purchasing at every level is the only way to ensure that you have any wine from this unique region. /CW
Offered subject to remaining unsold; available immediately
