Jean-Paul and Benoit Droin Chablis Montee de Tonnerre 1er Cru 2022

$76.99

91-93 points Vinous
The 2022 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre 1er Cru has a clean, precise bouquet that is more austere than Droin's other Premier Crus at the moment. More to give? (Droin mentioned this had just undergone some filtration). The palate is well-balanced with a crisp entry, fresh and saline with a more malic finish. Maybe the purists/classicists' choice? This will need considerable aging. - By Neal Martin on July 2023

91-93 points Jasper Morris
A clear mid lemon yellow. The bouquet is well balanced, confit de citron but not too peachy. Just a little spritz in the mouth, though this will be less evident after bottling. There is a full, rich, ripe yellow plum fruit, but not exaggerated and well within the style of Montée de Tonnerre. Drink from 2027-2033. Tasted: June 2023.

One of the great insider wines, Montée de Tonnerre, expresses many of the characteristics of Grand Cru Chablis which should come as no surprise as it is located on an adjacent hillside to the grand crus but with western exposure. This is a powerful wine in contrast to the more delicate and charming premier crus like Vaillons and Montmains, and it rewards the patience of those who wait a few years before pulling the cork.

Vine Age: 50, 1.76 ha, sustainably farmed
Soil: Kimmeridgian, limestone with microscopic fossilized oysters, veins of blue clay
Winemaking: 3-4 hour prefermentation settling, natural yeast fermentation in tank and barrel
Aging: 10 months in tank (60%) and French oak barrels (40% – 20% of barrels new)