2023 Samuel Billaud Chablis 1er Cru Les Vaillons Vieilles Vignes

Samuel Billaud has firmly established himself in the upper echelon of Chablis winemakers. His expression of Les Vaillons is one of his finest wines, sourced from a prime left-bank parcel that has been in the family since his great-grandmother's time. The vines here average 70 years of age, which naturally limits yields and imparts a mid-palate density that younger sites simply cannot replicate.

While the 2023 vintage brought warmer weather and earlier ripening to the region, Billaud’s exacting approach to harvest timing ensured this cuvée retained its crucial tension. The fruit is pressed quickly and then fermented and aged entirely in stainless steel for a year on its fine lees. All fruit, all power - this is an epic Chablis that doesn't need oak to have presence.

Despite the rich texture provided by the old vines, the wine remains remarkably agile, driven by a persistent, saline minerality that lingers on a long, precise finish. It is a thrilling Premier Cru that easily rivals Grand Cru quality, and one of the best wines made from this famous Cru.