Domaine Bernard Defaix Chablis 1er Cru Côtes de Léchet Réserve 2020

Much like the rest of Burgundy, Chablis’ finest vineyards have (for better or worse) become synonymous with a symbolic grower. This is the case with the Côte de Léchet, in Milly, and Domaine Bernard Defaix. The domaine is the largest holder within this 1er Cru and its cellars sit at the base of the Léchet hill. Didier Defaix is therefore the vineyard’s emblematic vigneron (and the site’s only certified organic grower). Alongside the 1er Cru Côte de Léchet proper, Defaix also bottles this sélection sourced from a single hectare of 60-year-old vines on the mid-slope of the Côte. The idea with this release is to showcase the old vine’s ability to produce a more layered, hedonistic and seductive wine than the standard Côte de Léchet cuvée. Bernard Defaix chooses to emphasise on the label that this fine wine is Chablis Premier Cru and ‘Reserve’ rather than focussing on the climat Côte de Lechet. It doesn’t really matter as it is a lovely Chablis with extra complexity from additional time on lees and in barrel. The wood adds to the palate feel but never loses sight that this is Chablis through and through, with fine acidity to finish. Drinking Window 2022 – 2027. – Andy Howard MW, Decanter Magazine, 93 Points The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – France Region – Chablis Vintage – 2020 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13%