Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons Billaud Simon 2022

Domaine Billaud-Simon is renowned for producing some of the best wines in Chablis, long recognised for their steely, mineral style. Domaine Billaud Simon owns 20 hectares of vineyards in some of the best areas in Chablis. Vaillons is derived from the term ‘vallon’, meaning ‘small valley’. The term ‘valson’ was also used previously. ‘Vaillons’ originates from the Latin vallis or valles meaning an ‘elongated area between two raised zones’.

Hand harvested in order to preserve the quality of the fruit. The grapes are sorted manually on a vibrating sorting table in order to retain only the most healthy fruit. The grapes are drained naturally before being pressed using a pneumatic press in order to gently extract the juices and conserve as much aroma as possible. Static cold settling of the musts for 12 to 24 hours in stainless steel vats in order to obtain a bright, clear juice. Alcoholic fermentation followed by malolactic fermentation, both natural, in stainless steel vats. 14 to 16 months in stainless steel vats with, if necessary, some time spent in French oak barrels. The ageing process preserves freshness and minerality whilst bringing complexity and body to the wine. The wine is racked twice before being bottled in the end of Autumn.

This 1er Cru lies to the south-west of Chablis and is the most floral and delicate of the 1er Crus. With remarkable aromatic complexity, apple blossom, jasmine and ripe citrus fruit. The palate is bright, pure, with depth and complexity, and has a lifted finish.