Domaine des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis 2021

Pierrick Laroche, the proud owner of Domaine des Hâtes, continues the legacy of his family’s estate located in the picturesque village of Maligny, in the north-west sector of Chablis. Established by his father in the 1970s, Pierrick’s family vineyard holdings have gradually expanded over time, resulting in the current size of around 33 hectares. After obtaining a degree in oenology from Beaune, Pierrick embarked on a journey to gain valuable experience by traveling the world and undertaking various internships. Armed with knowledge and a deep passion for winemaking, he returned home to take over the family vineyards and start producing his own wines. Pierrick’s cellars, ingeniously built into the side of a hill in the village, allow for much of the winemaking process to be conducted by gravity ensuring gentle handling of the grapes. The vinification takes place traditionally in stainless steel tanks, while some of the Premier and Grand Cru wines undergo a small portion of aging in used barrels, allowing for a full malolactic fermentation. One of his oldest vineyard plots, Les Châtillons, planted in the early 1970s, sits just behind the hill of the Grand Crus and showcases the meticulous use of barrel aging, which adds complexity and depth to the cuvée. In 2016, Pierrick expanded his range by starting a small négoce operation, sourcing must from friends who predominantly farm on the left side of the river. This addition includes premier crus such as Beauroy, Beauregard and Vau de Vey, as well as the grand cru of Bougros. In 2019, Pierrick inherited 8 acres of vines from his father-in-law in the southern sector of Chablis, around the village of Courgis. This inheritance includes Petit Chablis, 5.5 acres of Chablis and just over half an acre of the premier cru Les Butteaux. Pierrick Laroche’s dedication to his craft is evident in every bottle of wine he produces. With a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, his wines showcase the unique terroir of Chablis, captivating enthusiasts with their finesse, complexity and distinct character. As Pierrick continues to nurture and expand his vineyards, he upholds the family legacy while leaving his own mark on the world of Chablis winemaking. The name of Pierrick’s Domaine, “hâtes” refers to an old agricultural unit of measure, similar to the English rod. It evokes the long and slender fields used for sowing, where the longer rows made plowing easier with fewer turns. The term “hâtes” was often used to describe such fields. The 2021 Domaine des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis is a promising and faithful expression of the unique terroir of Chablis. Crafted from vineyards averaging 25 years old in proximity to Chablis village, this wine benefits from Pierrick Laroche’s meticulous vineyard and cellar work. On the nose, aromas of lemon zest, green apple and honeysuckle are found, reflecting the influence of the Kimmeridgian limestone soils. The palate is treated to vibrant acidity and flavors of citrus, stone fruits and a subtle mineral note, showing the hallmark terroir-driven character of Chablis. While youthful and delicious now, this Chablis also possesses the structure and acidity to evolve and gain more complexity over 5-10 years. The Chablis has a fresh, earthy bouquet that unfolds with aeration to reveal light marine notes. The taut, fresh palate is well balanced with fine acidity and a crisp, malic finish that does its job without frills. If that’s what you want, then this is just the ticket. – Neal Martin, Vinous, October 2021. On 2020 vintage. The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – France Region – Chablis Vintage – 2021 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13%