Domaine Roland Lavantureux Chablis “Vauprin” 2021

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1978 by Roland Lavantureux, Domaine Roland Lavantureux is situated in Lignorelles, a village within the Chablis appellation of Burgundy, France. After completing his studies in oenology in Beaune, Roland established the estate, focusing on producing high-quality Chablis wines that express the unique characteristics of the region’s terroir. Today, the domaine is managed by Roland’s sons, Arnaud and David Lavantureux. Arnaud oversees the vineyards and winemaking, while David handles marketing and sales. Together, they have implemented modern techniques and expanded the estate’s holdings, enhancing the reputation of their wines on the international stage. 

Producer and Winemaker

Arnaud Lavantureux serves as the winemaker at Domaine Roland Lavantureux. With a commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention, Arnaud focuses on crafting wines that authentically represent the Chablis terroir. His approach combines traditional Burgundian methods with modern innovations, resulting in wines that are both expressive and refined. 

Vineyards and Microclimate

The “Vauprin” vineyard is located near the village of Lignorelles in the Chablis region. This single-vineyard site is notable for its steep, south-facing slopes, which provide optimal sun exposure, aiding in the full ripening of the Chardonnay grapes. The soil is predominantly Kimmeridgian limestone, a calcareous clay rich in marine fossils, imparting a distinct minerality to the wine. The vines in this parcel are aged between 25 to 45 years, contributing to the concentration and complexity of the fruit. The Chablis region experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, and the elevation of the Vauprin vineyard allows for cool nights, preserving acidity and promoting aromatic development in the grapes. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes for the “Vauprin” cuvée are hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and integrity. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes undergo gentle pressing to extract the juice without imparting bitterness from the skins. Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts, with 50% of the must fermented in 228-liter oak barrels (ranging from new to five years old) and the remaining 50% in stainless steel tanks. This approach balances the development of complexity and the preservation of fresh fruit characteristics. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its fine lees for a period, enhancing mouthfeel and adding depth to the flavor profile. The use of older barrels ensures that oak influence is subtle, allowing the minerality and purity of the Chardonnay to shine through. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Chablis “Vauprin” presents a luminous pale gold hue. On the nose, it offers aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers, intertwined with subtle notes of wet stone and a hint of flint. The palate is characterized by a harmonious balance between a rounded, creamy texture and a vibrant, taut acidity. Flavors of crisp pear, citrus, and a touch of almond unfold, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish that reflects the Kimmeridgian limestone soils of the vineyard. This wine exemplifies the duality of richness and precision that is emblematic of top-tier Chablis. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chablis pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and mineral notes complement seafood such as oysters, grilled fish, and shrimp. It also pairs well with poultry dishes, creamy sauces, and soft cheeses like goat cheese. The wine’s freshness and complexity make it a versatile companion to many cuisines.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and crispness, serve the Chablis “Vauprin” well-chilled at around 10-12°C (50-54°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. This temperature accentuates the wine’s freshness and allows its nuanced aromas to shine. It’s recommended to open the bottle shortly before serving to preserve its delicate aromatics.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this Chablis is enjoyable upon release, displaying vibrant fruit flavors and crisp acidity, it also has the potential to develop additional complexity with cellaring. When stored properly in a cool, dark environment with stable temperatures, it can be enjoyed over the next 5 to 7 years, during which it may develop richer textures and more pronounced mineral characteristics.