Domaine Laroche : Chablis 1er cru "Montée de Tonnerre" 2020

Tasting Characteristics and Advice for the Chablis 1er Cru "Montée de Tonnerre" 2020 from Domaine Laroche

Tasting

Color

The wine displays a pale golden hue typical of great white wines from Burgundy.

Nose

The nose reveals lovely aromatic intensity with notes of citrus, notably lemon and grapefruit. Mineral nuances round out this elegant, refreshing bouquet.

Palate

The attack is lively and fresh, followed by a remarkable mineral structure. The palate unfolds generous citrus flavors with a persistent finish marked by chalky, mineral accents, lending this wine a Grand Cru-worthy elegance.

Food and Wine Pairings

This Chablis Premier Cru is a perfect match for scallops, seafood platters, and warm oysters. It also pairs beautifully with shellfish, delicate fish, simply prepared poultry, as well as full-flavored goat cheeses.

Serving and Cellaring

The Chablis 1er Cru "Montée de Tonnerre" 2020 is best served between 10 and 12°C. This wine can be aged until around 2030.

A Mineral and Elegant Chablis Premier Cru from Domaine Laroche

The Estate

Founded in 1850 in Burgundy, Domaine Laroche owns more than 91 hectares of vineyards in Chablis, including three Grands Crus and ten Premiers Crus. A subsidiary of the AdVini group since 2010, the estate has been run by Jean-Baptiste Mouton since 2023. A pioneer in sustainable viticulture, it obtained HVE 3A certification as early as 2016 and practices biodynamics on its Grands Crus. L'Obédiencerie, which houses the estate, has foundations dating back to the 9th century, bearing witness to a unique millennial heritage in Chablis.

The Vineyard

Montée de Tonnerre is among the most prestigious Premiers Crus of Chablis, located on the right bank and separated from the Grand Cru Les Blanchots by a narrow ravine. The climat benefits from a southwesterly exposure, allowing for optimal ripening while preserving freshness. The shallow soils rest on Kimmeridgian marly limestone streaked with veins of blue clay, bringing minerality and energy to the wine. The name of this climat, attested since 1537, refers to the ancient Roman road climbing toward Tonnerre.

The Vintage

The 2020 vintage in Burgundy stood out for its early ripening and classic character. The growing cycle unfolded around three weeks ahead of normal. Harvest began on August 25, with summer drought impacting yields in well-exposed parcels. Despite the warm, dry conditions, winegrowers were able to make their decisions with confidence. Alcoholic fermentations proceeded quickly, giving rise to balanced wines that retain the hallmark freshness of the appellation.

Vinification and Aging

The grapes for the Chablis 1er Cru "Montée de Tonnerre" 2020 were harvested by hand. The wine was aged for 12 months on fine lees in various vessels, combining stainless steel and French oak. Malolactic fermentation occurred naturally, allowing the wine to develop complexity while preserving its minerality.

Grape Variety

Chardonnay (100%)