Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2023 Jean-Paul & Benoit Droin | Burgundy

To the southwest of the village of Chablis, in northern Burgundy, the Montmains climat has a singular identity within the Chablis 1er Cru appellation. Situated on a relatively gentle slope, this terroir rests on Kimmeridgian soils that are particularly rich in clay, and deeper than in many parts of the appellation. This configuration favors a fuller, fleshier expression of Chardonnay, while preserving the mineral base typical of Chablis. Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin 's Chablis 1er Cru Montmains is in this vein, driven by a terroir renowned for producing some of the richest and deepest Premiers Crus. The wine estate's plot here covers just over 2 hectares, planted with vines around forty-five years old. The wine estate practises integrated viticulture, with regular tilling of the soil. Hand-harvesting precedes natural fermentation using indigenous yeasts, in stainless steel vats and oak barrels. Malolactic fermentation is systematically completed, followed by ageing for 8 to 10 months before final blending.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : With its particularly generous profile, Jean-Paul & Benoît Droin 's Chablis Premier Cru Montmains occupies a special place in the appellation. The high proportion of clay lends the wine a breadth and depth of substance that bring it closer to a more "Burgundian" style, while retaining a very Chablis mineral framework. At Jean Paul and Benoît Droin, richness and freshness are naturally balanced, offering a cuvée capable of evolving harmoniously over the next decade.

The nose opens with ripe aromas of yellow fruit, exotic fruit and citrus. Between the richness of apricot, nectarine, papaya and citron, there are hints of white flowers and fine spices. The aromas of hazelnut and roasted almond reveal this cuvée's potential to develop into a superb, full-bodied wine.

On the palate, the generous body delivers an enveloping texture, balanced by a fine acidity and freshness. Flavors of ripe fruit and toasted nuts mingle with more brioche notes from ageing, with fine concentration. The sapid, mineral finish prolongs the tasting experience.