With summer finally here, I’m constantly getting asked by my customers if I can recommend a good Chardonnay. Usually, my next question has to do with what style they prefer, and the majority of the customers responses are ‘not too oaky’ and ‘on the dryer side.’ My first go-to recommendation is a Chablis! What I’ve realized though is that many aren’t aware that it’s produced from the Chardonnay grape. Actually, many connoisseurs and critics believe it’s the truest form of Chardonnay due to the cooler climate of the region and on average, they use much less influence of oak than other regions that produce Chardonnay. Chablis is known for having ‘steely’ and ‘flinty’ notes with nice minerality and acidity.
William Fevre was the son of an accomplished winemaker and started Domaine de la Maladiere where he produced and bottled his first wine in 1959. Over a 50 year span, Domanie de la Maladiere became one of the leading producers in Chablis, and also became the largest owner of Grand Cru vineyards. He also had a very dominant and outspoken personality and became one of the leading figures in the region. In 1998, he sold the estate to the Henriot family of Champagne and at that time they changed the name to Domaine William Fevre. The Henriot family made several changes at the winery and the quality of the wine increased by doing so. Ever since, William Fevre has been regarded as one of the best, if not the best producer in Chablis.
Just recently we checked one of Domaine Fevres Grand Cru Chablis into stock from the legendary ’10 vintage. I have several customers that love this particular Grand Cru ‘Bougros’.
One of my favorite pairings with Chablis is shellfish, so I secured two dozen oysters from my local fish monger to enjoy with this delicious white Burgundy. Once in the glass, you notice the pale golden color, with a nose of lemon zest, fresh cut flowers and honey. In the mouth, it was crisp and clean with light pear and butterscotch flavors and finished with bright acidity and a lingering finish. A sip of this paired with any shellfish is a real treat!
So if you’re looking for an alternative to California Chardonnay, definitely seek out this delicious Chablis to try. Also, from a value stand point it’s hard to beat a Grand Cru Burgundy for Under $60 a bottle. This wine also received a fantastic 95-point score.