Domaine des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis 2022

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. Domaine des Hâtes, under the guidance of Pierrick Laroche, presents the Chablis 2022, a wine that beautifully showcases the unique characteristics of the Maligny commune in the Chablis region. With nearly 12 hectares of vineyards, most of which are located in Maligny, and an additional 1 hectare in the Fontenay valley, Domaine des Hâtes is dedicated to producing exceptional Chablis wines. The Chablis 2022 from Domaine des Hâtes is crafted from eight parcels of vineyards, all ranked as Chablis. The average age of the vines is 30 years, ensuring a depth of flavour and complexity in the final wine. This particular vintage offers a light, slightly chalky bouquet that reveals its full potential with aeration. On the palate, the Chablis 2022 displays a well-balanced profile. The initial taste may reveal a touch of reduction, a characteristic often associated with young Chablis wines. However, this adds to the wine’s complexity and will likely evolve with further aging. The fine acidity of the wine is complemented by hints of fresh mango and Clementine, adding a delightful tropical touch. Despite these fruity notes, the Chablis 2022 retains its crispness, a hallmark of the Chablis style. The 2022 Chablis Village has a light, slightly chalky bouquet that opens nicely with aeration. Very controlled. The palate is well balanced, with a touch of reduction on the entry and fine acidity with hints of fresh mango and Clementine towards the finish. It errs towards the tropical side, but it retains crispness and typicite. – Neal Martin, Vinous. The Finer Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – France Region – Chablis Vintage – 2022 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13%