Domaine Sébastien Dampt Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons 2022

Winery Background and History

Domaine Sébastien Dampt is a family-owned estate located in the Chablis region of Burgundy, France. Established by Sébastien Dampt, who comes from a lineage of vignerons, the domaine focuses on producing high-quality Chablis wines that express the unique terroir of the region. Sébastien’s approach combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern practices to craft wines that are both authentic and contemporary.

Producer and Winemaker

Sébastien Dampt serves as both the proprietor and winemaker of the estate. With a deep respect for the Chablis terroir, he employs meticulous vineyard management and minimal intervention in the cellar to allow the Chardonnay grapes to fully express their character. His philosophy emphasizes purity, precision, and a clear reflection of the vineyard sites in his wines.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Vaillons Premier Cru vineyard is situated on the left bank of the Serein River in Chablis. Known for its south-southeast exposure, the vineyard benefits from optimal sunlight, promoting even ripening of the grapes. The soil composition is predominantly Kimmeridgian limestone, rich in fossilized marine organisms, which imparts a distinctive minerality to the wines. The 2022 growing season experienced favorable conditions, resulting in healthy grapes with balanced acidity and concentrated flavors.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The grapes are hand-harvested to ensure optimal quality. After gentle pressing, the must undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh fruit characteristics and natural acidity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for several months, which enhances its texture and complexity. The use of oak is minimal, allowing the purity of the Chardonnay fruit and the expression of the Vaillons terroir to shine through.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13%

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Sébastien Dampt Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons presents a pale gold hue in the glass. On the nose, it offers aromas of yellow apple, sliced pear, and acacia flowers, followed by hints of salted caramel and cheese rind, underscored by a saline minerality. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp acidity, delivering flavors that mirror the nose, leading to a refreshing and mineral-driven finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Chablis pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and mineral undertones make it an excellent companion to seafood, particularly oysters, crab, and grilled fish. It also complements poultry dishes, creamy pastas, and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert. For a delightful pairing, consider serving it alongside a lemon herb roasted chicken or a seafood risotto.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this wine, it is recommended to serve it chilled at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F). Using medium-sized white wine glasses will allow the aromas to concentrate and enhance the tasting experience. Decanting is not necessary; however, allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after pouring can help open up its aromatic profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2022 Sébastien Dampt Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons is approachable in its youth but also has the potential for short to medium-term aging. When stored properly in a cool, dark environment with a consistent temperature around 12°C (54°F) and moderate humidity, the wine can develop additional complexity over the next 5 to 7 years. As it ages, expect the emergence of richer, more nuanced flavors and a rounder mouthfeel.