La Chablisienne Chablis 1er Cru Côte de Léchet AOP 2021

Winery Background and History

Established in 1923, La Chablisienne is a renowned cooperative winery in Chablis, Burgundy, France. It comprises approximately 270 winegrowing families, collectively managing around 1,200 hectares of vineyards. The cooperative is known for producing high-quality wines that express the unique terroirs of Chablis, spanning Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru appellations. Their approach emphasizes meticulous vineyard management and traditional winemaking techniques to capture the essence of each vineyard site. 

Producer and Winemaker

La Chablisienne operates as a cooperative, with its member growers supplying grapes from their vineyards. The winemaking team at La Chablisienne oversees the production process, ensuring consistency and quality across their range of wines. Their collective expertise focuses on crafting wines that reflect the distinctive characteristics of Chablis’ terroirs.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Côte de Léchet vineyard is one of the older sites in Chablis, originally owned by the Potigny monks who first planted Chardonnay in the region during the 12th century. Located on the left bank of the Serein River, above the village of Milly, this Premier Cru vineyard features steep southeast-facing slopes with gradients reaching up to 38%. The Kimmeridgian clay-limestone soils, rich in fossilized oyster shells, contribute to the wine’s characteristic minerality. The southeast exposure allows for gradual ripening, preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic complexity. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 vintage began with mild winter weather leading to early budbreak, followed by severe frosts in April that significantly reduced yields. Despite these challenges, meticulous vineyard management and careful sorting at harvest resulted in elegant, aromatic wines with notable tension. Fermentation was carried out in stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation. The wine matured for approximately 16 months on fine lees, with 70% in stainless steel tanks and 30% in oak barrels (no more than 50% new oak), balancing freshness with subtle complexity. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5% 

Tasting Notes

The 2021 Côte de Léchet 1er Cru presents an initially discreet and complex nose with light lemony notes, evolving into more pronounced aromas of juicy apricots and peaches. On the palate, the wine offers a long, linear finish, showcasing its hallmark tension and minerality. 

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 Côte de Léchet 1er Cru 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.