Wine List
Chablis `les Grenouilles` Grand Cru Domaine Defaix 2005
- Country
- France
- Region
- Chablis
- Producer
- Domaine Defaix
- Grape(s)
- Chardonnay
- Type
- White
- Style
- Crisp
- Oaked Style
- Lightly oaked
- Body Style
- Full bodied
- Dry / Sweet Style
- Dry
- Alcohol Content (%)
- 12
- Closure Style
- Cork
- Organic / Biodynamic
- Normal
Region
Only 100 miles south of Paris, Chablis represents the northern limit of Burgundy`s wine regions, centred around the town of Auxerre. The soils are predominantly limestone and chalk, perfect for the Chardonnay grape, the only variety allowed in Chablis.
Chablis, along with Champagne, is the original `cool climate region`, with frost being a common problem. However careful siting of south facing vineyards enables the vignerons to produce classic, dry, and steely wines. The most complex of these are produced from the seven Grand Cru vineyards which are all located on the northern slopes that overlook the town of Chablis itself, with famous names such as `Les Preuses` and `Grenouilles`. The Premier Cru vineyards are scattered around Chablis on the slopes of the valleys and here produce excellent quality wines with a little less intensity.
Producer
The ancient Domaine Daniel-Etienne Defaix occupies Château de Milly where the first wines from Chablis were vinified eight centuries ago by the monks of Pontigny. The production is meticulous and defies commercial logic; harvest of very ripe berries only, fermentation lasting 3 weeks, 18 months age on the lees and a further 4-6 years in the cellar!
Tasting (Long)
The Grand Cru vineyards lie on the nearby south and south west slopes to immediately to the north of the town of Chablis itself, benefiting from the warming influences of the River Serein. The smallest of Chablis` Grand Cru vineyards, `Les Grenouilles` conveys rich calcareous mineral elements, combined with intense harmonious fruit. Beautifully balanced with an intensely complex palate that lingers on the finish.
Tasting (Short)
The smallest of Chablis` Grand Crus vineyards, `Les Grenouilles` conveys rich calcareous mineral elements, combined with intense harmonious fruit. Beautifully balanced with an intensely complex palate that lingers on the finish.
Food
Perfect with rich seafood, including lobster, shell fish and salmon and white meats.
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