Domaine Laroche : Chablis Grand cru "Les Bouguerots" 2016

Tasting Characteristics and Serving Tips for the Chablis Grand Cru "Les Bouguerots" 2016 from Domaine Laroche

Tasting

Appearance

The wine displays a pale yellow hue with green highlights characteristic of great white wines from Burgundy.

Nose

The nose reveals aromas of ripe, tangy citrus fruit, accompanied by notes of Asian pear and jasmine. Floral nuances of white rose mingle with a pronounced minerality evoking flint and oyster shell. Subtle buttery and brioche notes complete this complex bouquet, while lemon zest brings an extra touch of freshness.

Palate

On the palate, this wine reveals excellent structure with vibrant acidity that brings drive and precision. Flavors of white-fleshed fruit unfold in layered waves, supported by a chalky mineral texture. Ageing on fine lees lends richness and depth to the palate. The finish stands out for its remarkable length, with echoes of citrus and a light spicy note, accompanied by a persistent chalky sensation.

Food and wine pairings

This Chablis Grand Cru "Les Bouguerots" 2016 pairs perfectly with seafood, notably crab and lobster. It also elegantly complements grilled or poached white-fleshed fish, served with light citrus-based sauces. White meats such as chicken, prepared with a cream sauce, also make a harmonious match.

Serving and cellaring potential

It is recommended to serve the Chablis Grand Cru "Les Bouguerots" 2016 between 12 and 15°C. Decanting for around one hour before serving allows the wine to fully express its aromatic complexity.

A Chablis Grand Cru combining power and Burgundian minerality

The estate

Domaine Laroche traces its origins back to 1850, when Jean-Victor Laroche acquired his first vineyard parcels near Chablis. The estate experienced significant expansion under the leadership of Henri Laroche from 1967, followed by his son Michel, who greatly developed the property. Since 2010, Domaine Laroche has been part of the AdVini group. Now led by Thierry Bellicaud, with Grégory Viennois as technical director since 2011, the estate farms around one hundred hectares of vineyards in Burgundy, including prestigious Grand Cru parcels. The property stands out for its environmental commitment, with HVE 3A certification obtained in 2016 and the application of biodynamic principles on its Grands Crus.

The vineyard

The climat Les Bouguerots lies at the foot of the Grands Crus hillside of Chablis, benefiting from an ideal south and south-west exposure. This parcel occupies the westernmost position among the seven Grands Crus of the appellation, close to the Serein river. The soil rests on a characteristic Kimmeridgian subsoil, composed of limestone rich in marine fossils dating back to the Jurassic. A clay layer around thirty centimeters deep ensures favorable water retention during the summer. Domaine Laroche owns around 15.85 hectares on this climat, making the estate one of the leading holders of this prestigious appellation.

The vintage

The 2016 vintage in Burgundy proved particularly challenging for the Chablis area. Devastating frosts affected many vineyards, resulting in average losses ranging between 50 and 80% of potential production. However, some protected, well-situated parcels, notably in Grand Cru, were able to achieve acceptable yields. The grapes that reached ripeness showed excellent health and satisfactory maturity, enabling meticulous producers to craft high-quality wines despite the difficult weather conditions.

Vinification and ageing

The grapes for the Chablis Grand Cru "Les Bouguerots" 2016 were hand-harvested and then rigorously sorted. After gentle pneumatic pressing, only the heart of the press juice was selected. Fermentation took place partly in stainless-steel tanks and partly in French oak barrels. Following alcoholic fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation before ageing on fine lees for several months. This ageing method provides oxidative stability and strengthens the wine’s structure, while preserving its freshness and mineral expression.

Grape variety

100% Chardonnay