The 2023 vintage in Chablis has proven to be remarkable, yielding delicious wines in substantial quantities. Despite concerns about potential frost caused by an unusually warm and dry winter, the spring progressed largely unscathed, save for minor frost events in late March and early April.
Ideal conditions during the flowering period in early June led to an abundant crop. Summer brought scattered rain and cooler temperatures, yet a September heatwave accelerated ripening, resulting in higher alcohol levels and lower acidity.
The 2023 Chablis report provides comprehensive coverage of wines spanning from Petit Chablis to premier and grand cru Chablis, including notable wines from the Grand Auxerrois region. This year, the report also highlights crus such as Irancy, Saint-Bris, and Vézélay, which are gaining recognition for their quality in recent warmer vintages.
Charles Curtis MW evaluated over 400 of Chablis’ finest wines, recognizing both renowned producers like Raveneau and Dauvissat, as well as emerging talents like Pattes Loup and Domaine 47°N 3°E. His report includes a selection of the top 100 wines, focusing on quality and value.
The report showcases the immediate drinkability of Petit Chablis and village Chablis, where generous yields have kept prices relatively reasonable. Curtis provides insights into the distinctions between premier crus on either bank of the Serein River, with detailed assessments of the grand cru slope and its diverse terroirs.
However, it is important to note the challenges faced during the vintage. Some producers struggled with yield control, leading to diluted wines, while others misjudged harvest timing, resulting in wines with high alcohol and low acidity. Fortunately, the top growers succeeded in crafting intense, ageworthy wines worth acquiring en primeur. This detailed analysis expands on the original report featured in the magazine’s December 2024 issue.