DOMAINE LAROCHE CHABLIS 1ER CRU LES VAUDEVEY 2022

Domaine Laroche's 2022 Chablis Premier Cru Les Vaudevey showcases the distinctive terroir of this cool, narrow valley where their 40-year-old vines grow in classic Kimmeridgian limestone soils with eastern exposure. This vegan-certified premier cru, known as "the wine lovers' cru," benefits from slow ripening that concentrates aromas while preserving vibrant acidity. Despite 2022's hot, dry summer, timely rainfall and careful vineyard management produced excellent fruit with thick skins, prompting gentle pressing techniques to preserve brightness. Fermented and aged 12 months in a combination of French oak (15%) and stainless steel (85%) in the historic 9th-century Obédiencerie cellars, this 100% Chardonnay delivers remarkable tension and precision at 12.5% ABV. On the palate, expect delicate mineral notes with a citrus-fresh character that wine critic Neal Martin describes as having "lovely spine of acidity" and a "mineral-rich finish."