Domaine Billaud-Simon Chablis Grand Cru Blanchot Vieilles Vignes 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1815, Domaine Billaud-Simon is a historic estate located in the heart of Chablis, Burgundy. With over two centuries of winemaking tradition, the domaine has established itself as a benchmark for quality Chablis wines. The estate owns approximately 17 hectares of vineyards, including parcels in four of the seven Grand Cru climats. Billaud-Simon is renowned for its commitment to expressing the pure, mineral character of Chablis through meticulous vineyard management and precise winemaking techniques.

Producer and Winemaker

Domaine Billaud-Simon is currently under the ownership of the Faiveley family, who acquired the estate in 2014. The winemaking team, led by Olivier Bailly, continues the domaine’s legacy of producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Chablis. Their approach combines traditional methods with modern technology to craft wines of precision, elegance, and longevity. The focus remains on highlighting the distinctive characteristics of each vineyard site, particularly the Grand Cru parcels.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Blanchot Grand Cru vineyard is situated on the easternmost flank of the Chablis Grand Cru hill, benefiting from a southeast exposure that provides ample morning sunlight. This climat is characterized by its Kimmeridgian limestone soils, rich in fossilized marine organisms, which impart a distinctive minerality to the wines. The Vieilles Vignes designation indicates that the Chardonnay vines are notably old, contributing to lower yields and more concentrated fruit. The 2022 vintage experienced a warm and dry growing season, resulting in ripe, expressive grapes with balanced acidity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted before fermentation. The must undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and varietal character. Following fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for 12 to 15 months, with a portion matured in oak barrels to enhance complexity and texture. This approach allows the wine to develop richness and depth while maintaining the vibrant acidity and minerality characteristic of Chablis.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Blanchot Vieilles Vignes displays a bright, clear hue with golden-green glimmers. The nose is elegant and delicate, offering floral notes of acacia and lime blossom, intertwined with citrus fruits. On the palate, the wine is rich and opulent, revealing toasty nuances and candied fruit flavors. A pronounced minerality provides a tonic finish, contributing to the wine’s length and balance. The harmonious integration of ripe fruit and mineral notes results in a soft, mouth-filling texture.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Grand Cru Chablis pairs exceptionally well with a variety of seafood dishes, including shellfish, crab, and lobster. Its richness and minerality complement grilled or poached fish, as well as poultry with creamy sauces. The wine’s acidity and complexity also make it a suitable match for aged cheeses and dishes featuring earthy mushrooms. For an optimal pairing, consider serving it alongside seared scallops or a classic sole meunière.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and balance, serve the 2022 Blanchot Vieilles Vignes at a temperature of 12°C to 14°C (54°F to 57°F). Decanting for 30 minutes before serving can help open up the wine’s bouquet and enhance its flavors. Use Burgundy-style white wine glasses to concentrate the aromas and allow the wine to express its full character.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2022 vintage has the potential to age gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years, developing additional complexity and depth. With proper cellaring, expect the emergence of tertiary notes such as honey, nuts, and earthy nuances, enhancing the wine’s richness and character.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%