Vincent Dauvissat, Chablis Grand Cru, Les Clos, Burgundy, France ***On Allocation***, 2023

Producer Profile

Domaine Vincent Dauvissat has long been regarded as being the finest estate in Chablis.

First founded in the 1970s by Robert Dauvissat, the Domaine has remained a family affair to this day, passed down through three generations. Passed to Robert’s son, René, he played a key role in building the Domaine’s esteemed reputation, and then Vincent Dauvissat joined his father in the 1970s and now oversees the estate. A devoted following among France’s top restaurateurs keeps export quantities limited, but despite the scarcity, Dauvissat’s wines have earned acclaim from critics around the globe.

Viticulture

From Les Clos, the largest and most renowned of the seven Chablis Grand Cru climats, there are 3 different parcels of 50 year old vines that total 1.0 ha that provide the fruit for the wine. Primarily Kimmeridgian limestone and clay, rich in marine fossils — key to Chablis’ signature minerality. South to southwest-facing slopes — optimal for ripening in this cool northern climate. Protected from northern winds, with excellent sun exposure leading to more structured, powerful wines than many other Chablis sites.

Tasting Note

The bouquet is intricate and evolving, offering aromas of tart orange, apple, and pear, interwoven with flinty minerality, citrus zest, and a subtle touch of vanillin oak. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and complex, with a great core and outstanding mineral drive. It exhibits a lovely spine of acidity and a long, focused, and perfectly balanced finish. The mouthfeel is dense and intense, with a broad-shouldered structure that delivers remarkable length on the stony, austere, and very dry finale.

Food Matching

Lobster or crab with butter or citrus-based sauces, Guinea fowl with a light cream or mushroom sauce.