Domaine Roland Lavantureux Vieilles Vignes Chablis AOC 2022

Winery Background and History

Domaine Roland Lavantureux, established in 1978 by Roland Lavantureux, is located in Lignorelles, a village in the Chablis region of Burgundy, France. After completing his studies in oenology in Beaune, Roland founded the estate with a focus on producing high-quality Chablis wines that express the unique terroir of the region. Over the years, the domaine has expanded to approximately 20 hectares, with vineyards planted primarily on Kimmeridgian limestone soils, contributing to the distinctive minerality characteristic of Chablis wines. Roland’s sons, Arnaud and David, have joined the family business, bringing fresh perspectives and innovations while maintaining the traditional practices that have defined the estate’s reputation. Their combined efforts have elevated the domaine’s status, making it one of the most reliable producers in Chablis.

Producer and Winemaker

Arnaud and David Lavantureux, the sons of founder Roland Lavantureux, currently manage the estate. Arnaud oversees the vineyards and cellar operations, ensuring that the cultivation and winemaking processes align with the family’s commitment to quality and terroir expression. David focuses on marketing and sales, expanding the domaine’s presence in both domestic and international markets. Together, they have implemented sustainable viticulture practices and modernized the winery’s facilities, all while honoring the traditional methods that have been the hallmark of their family’s winemaking philosophy.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The “Vieilles Vignes” (Old Vines) cuvée is sourced from three parcels of the estate’s oldest Chardonnay vines, averaging around 60 years in age. These vineyards are located on slopes with optimal sun exposure, allowing for the full ripening of the grapes. The soils are predominantly Kimmeridgian limestone, a calcareous clay rich in fossilized marine organisms, which imparts a distinct minerality to the wines. Chablis experiences a semi-continental climate, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The proximity to the Serein River provides a moderating effect, reducing the risk of frost and promoting a longer growing season. The 2022 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, with a mild spring and a warm, dry summer, leading to healthy grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes for the Vieilles Vignes cuvée are hand-harvested to ensure optimal ripeness and integrity. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes undergo a gentle pressing to extract the juice while minimizing the extraction of bitter compounds from the skins. Fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh fruit characteristics and the inherent minerality of the Chardonnay. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its fine lees for several months, which enhances the mouthfeel and adds complexity to the flavor profile. The aging process takes place in a combination of stainless steel tanks and neutral oak barrels, allowing for subtle oxygenation without imparting dominant oak flavors. This approach maintains the purity and precision of the wine, highlighting the expression of the old vines and the unique terroir of Chablis.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Vieilles Vignes Chablis presents a concentrated and pristinely focused sensation on the palate, demonstrating why this domaine has become one of Chablis’ very best. It offers a delectable combination of fresh fruit and oyster-shell aromatics, with notes of tart apple skin and doughy nuances, along with a blast of fresh minerals. The amplitude and mouth-filling texture are the stars here, leading to a long, satisfying finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chablis pairs beautifully with seafood dishes, particularly lobster or lemony baked cod topped with capers. Its vibrant acidity and minerality complement the richness of shellfish and the tanginess of citrus-infused preparations. It also pairs well with oysters, grilled fish, and creamy cheeses, enhancing the flavors and providing a refreshing contrast.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and crispness, serve the 2022 Vieilles Vignes Chablis well-chilled at around 8-10°C (46-50°F) in medium-sized white wine glasses. This temperature accentuates the wine’s freshness and allows its nuanced aromas to shine. Decanting is not necessary; however, allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can enhance its expression.

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.