2024 Burgundy: Chablis Tasting Notes
The 2024 Chablis vintage has been characterized by significant challenges, particularly hail and mildew, which impacted yields across various domains. Despite these adversities, many producers have managed to create wines with vibrant characteristics, capturing the essence of this cooler vintage.
Domaine Bessin-Tremblay (La Chapelle-Vaupelteigne)
Antoine Bessin reflects on the devastating hail events in Chapelle-Vaupelteigne, particularly the one on May 1, which caused severe damage to the vines. The unusual weather also resulted in significant rainfall, leading to variations in ripeness and yield, which varied tremendously between different plots. The resulting wines present a higher malic acidity and are characterized by a lighter body, with notable minerality.
Domaine Jean-Marc Brocard (Préhy)
Julien Brocard recounts the battle against aggressive mildew that severely affected their vineyards early in the season, forcing them to alternate between organic and conventional management practices. Though yields were low, the remaining wines exhibit a surprising complexity, with classic Chablis characteristics shining through. Notable cuvées include:
- Chablis Sainte Claire: Energetic with candied citrus notes, vibrant acidity, and a mineral finish.
- Chablis Premier Cru Vau de Vey: Aged in large foudres, showcasing ripe, exotic aromas balanced by sharp acidity.
Domaine Julien Brocard (Préhy)
Julien’s biodynamic practices yielded wines with a crystalline quality, displaying fresh citrus profiles and engaging minerality. The focus on meticulous vineyard management has resulted in expressive wines.
Domaine William Fèvre (Chablis)
Didier Séguier sought to enhance precision in winemaking by utilizing quicker harvesting methods and ensuring minimal pressure during pressing. The objective was to create vibrant wines showcasing the grape’s natural character without excessive oak influence. Key tasting notes include:
- Chablis Premier Cru Vauillons: Juicy and fresh with a vibrant citrus profile.
- Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos: Well-balanced with a seamless finish, representing the essence of the terroir.
Domaine François Raveneau (Chablis)
Isabelle Raveneau noted considerable challenges due to both frost and hail affecting their harvest. Low yields resulted in a lighter style of wine compared to previous years, yet the 2024 vintage is seen as an opportunity for depth and elegance. Wines include:
- Chablis Premier Cru Forêts: Juicy with an earthy touch and vibrant finish.
- Chablis Premier Cru Montée de Tonnerre: Taut and focused, showcasing a cold grip that signals great potential for aging.
Domaine Servin (Chablis)
Despite avoiding hail, Servin faced yield reductions from rain affecting flowering. However, their approach to machine harvesting at optimal times benefited overall quality. The wines are clean and expressively engaging.
Conclusion
The 2024 Chablis vintage, despite its challenges, has produced wines with a unique character. Producers have displayed resilience and creativity in navigating adverse conditions, leading to a selection of wines that balance vivacity and a classic Chablis essence. From crisp and refreshing village wines to complex premiers and grands crus, the vintage promises to offer delights for both immediate enjoyment and aging.
For more details on the 2024 vintage and specific wines, you can explore further about Chablis here.