Domaine Laroche : Chablis Grand cru "Les Bouguerots" 2022

From selected vines replanted on the steep lower slopes of grand cru Bougros, with a foot of clay soil over the bedrock. Quite a bit of reduction on the nose is keeping the wine a little shy at the moment. Lots of acidity with concentration and depth on the palate and a long finish with real focus and drive. A very fine grand cru in the making, but will need quite a bit of time. Tasted blind.

The 2022 Chablis Les Bouguerots Grand Cru has a stern, stony bouquet that needs coaxing from the glass, quite nuanced, with a subtle marine influence emerging over time—oyster shell and cockle sheds. The palate is crisp and fresh, with a healthy twist of sour lemon. It’s very saline and sharp, and I like that. Yes, it’s a little raw on its own, but paired with some fruits de mer, it will be irresistible. Tasted blind at the BIVB tasting in Chablis.

Initially, this wine appears a bit shy, revealing reduction but showcases plenty of acidity. With aeration, notes of tart and ripe citrus, Asian pear, jasmine, white rose, and flint emerge. The palate hints at generosity but remains taut and focused, yet with driving acidity that leaves a lingering trail of saline minerality. Cellar well through 2028+ to fully reveal its beauty.