Domaine Gerard Duplessis Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020

Domaine Gérard Duplessis, a family-operated estate established in 1895 and presently overseen by Lilian Duplessis, is situated in the heart of the Chablis region. The estate encompasses 8 hectares of vineyards, divided into approximately twenty plots, each with its unique character. Some of the vines have been in place for 75 years, demanding constant attention in line with the principles of organic viticulture. The estate includes Grand Cru Les Clos, Premiers Crus Vaugiraut, Mont-de-Milieu, Fourchaume, Montée-de-Tonnerre, Montmains and Vaillons, all renowned localities cherished by Chablis enthusiasts and honored on the estate. The Domaine Gerard Duplessis Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020 is sourced from 3 hectares, constituting the largest parcel of the estate, spread across two parcels, both over 80 years old. One parcel is positioned on the border between Montmains and Foret, while the second is located in Foret, straddling the line. Despite this, both are bottled together as 1er Cru Montmains. This wine is characterized by its directness and weight in the mouth, offering a sense of tension and intellectual depth. According to Lilian, it embodies the quintessential character of Chablis and stands as his favorite Cru. The winemaking process involves direct pressing into tank, without pre-ferment racking or setting, followed by wild fermentation, malolactic fermentation completed in tank, and a period of lees aging for 6 months. Subsequently, the wine is transferred to barrel, with 10% new oak, and undergoes a total aging period of 12 to 18 months, depending on the vintage. The Domaine Gerard Duplessis Chablis 1er Cru Montmains 2020 originates from the largest parcel of the Domaine, spanning two parcels, both boasting vines over 80 years old. One parcel is situated on the border between Montmains and Foret, while the second is located solely in Foret, yet both are bottled together as 1er Cru Montmains. This particular Cru holds special significance for Lilian, embodying the quintessential character of Chablis, according to him. The winemaking process involves direct pressing into tank, bypassing pre-ferment racking or setting, followed by wild fermentation. Malolactic fermentation is completed in tank, and the wine is left on its lees for 6 months before being transferred to barrel, with 10% new oak and aged for a total of 12 to 18 months. These two plots, each spanning one hectare, are characterized by clay-limestone soil, contributing to the creation of a bold, powerful, and resolute wine. This robust wine possesses an unwavering nature, unyielding even to the passage of time, as it continues to evolve and improve. It is suggested that this wine has the potential to age gracefully for around fifteen years. The 2020 Chablis Montmains 1er Cru is more concentrated on the nose compared to the Montée de Tonnerre, showing traces of acacia honey, yellow flowers and nectarine. The palate is very well balanced and quite dense and weighty in the mouth, with just the right amount of bitterness on the finish. Superb.” – Neal Martin, 92-94 Points. The Fine Details Style – White Wine Varietal – Chardonnay Country – France Region – Chablis Vintage – 2020 Bottle Size – 750ml ABV – 13% Other – Organic