2023 Jean-Paul Droin Chablis Montmains

The 2023 Chablis Montmains 1er Cru has a fresh, malic nose, perhaps a little more old school compared to the Vaillons. The palate is fresh and slightly creamy on the entry, with touches of lemon verbena and orange pith. A dash of white pepper just perks up the understated finish. Fine, though not as long term as others. 90 points

Clear pale colour. 40% has been vinified in wood, though there is no overt oak character evident. Benoît takes care to use a mix of different coopers and forests to avoid any one dominating. A wealth of fruit here instead, a slight stony reduction attributable to the thick layer of white marly soil. Excellent white fruit and flesh in the aftertaste. 90-93 points