2024 Chablis stands out as a vintage marked by charm, liveliness, and a distinct salinity, despite the adverse weather conditions it faced. The narrative surrounding this vintage was initially colored by a devastating hailstorm, persistent mildew, and an overcast summer, leading many to assume the quality would be compromised. However, those who tried the wines found them to be engaging, showcasing the vibrancy that Chablis is known for.
The characteristic smoky, reductive aroma of Chablis is notably prominent in 2024, possibly attributed to the Kimmeridgian limestone and aging on lees. This vintage is not defined by an overly cold sensation; instead, it presents itself as fresh and medium-bodied, avoiding the overly high alcohol and concentration that plagued other vintages like 2023. Grapes expressed an array of citrus and floral notes, while some even revealed ripe and tropical hints, a result of modest yields in certain vineyards.
Low yields were a hallmark of the 2024 season, primarily due to the inclement weather that hindered flowering and growth. Organic vineyards faced significant losses yet produced some surprisingly concentrated wines, while conventional farms had slightly better outcomes. Notably, specific climats like Vaillons, Forêt, and Vaucoupin were highlighted for their unique expressions, and grand cru vines such as Les Clos and Preuses showed potential for high-quality outputs.
Among producers, sentiments were mixed but predominantly optimistic. Many commented on the surprising freshness and balance within their wines despite the difficulties encountered during the growing season. Julien Brocard remarked on the classic characteristics of Chablis emerging this year, noting its sharpness and minerality, whereas others echoed the sentiment of historical difficulties being compensated by the resultant wine quality.
The season was fraught with challenges, including frost and a significant hailstorm that affected many vineyards differently. The localized nature of the hail impacted some areas severely, leaving others nearly unscathed, which contributed to the variability in yield and quality among producers. Harvest began in September under relatively favorable conditions, although rain introduced complications.
Tasting notes from this vintage indicated that the wines are less acidic than expected with balanced profiles and potential for early enjoyment. Overall, 2024 Chablis is poised to surprise critics and enthusiasts alike, encouraging early consumption and appreciation for its refreshing qualities.
For further exploration, consider the full analysis of the 2024 Burgundy vintage: 2024 Burgundy: The summer of tough love and a guide to the villages and vineyards: 2024 Burgundy: A guide to the villages and vineyards.