Domaine Billaud-Simon Chablis Grand Cru Les Preuses 2022

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1815, Domaine Billaud-Simon is a historic estate in Chablis, Burgundy. With over 200 years of winemaking heritage, the domaine is renowned for producing wines that reflect the purity and elegance of their terroirs. Under the ownership of the Faiveley family since 2014, the estate has embraced sustainable viticulture and modernized winemaking techniques, enhancing the quality and reputation of its wines.

Producer and Wine Maker

The winemaking team at Domaine Billaud-Simon is led by Olivier Bailly, who emphasizes precision in both vineyard management and winemaking. Their approach focuses on minimal intervention, allowing each wine to express its unique origin. The team’s dedication to quality and innovation ensures that Domaine Billaud-Simon’s wines consistently showcase elegance, depth, and a true sense of place.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The Les Preuses Grand Cru vineyard is situated on the right bank of the Serein River in Chablis, benefiting from a southwest exposure and Kimmeridgian limestone soils. This terroir imparts a distinctive minerality and complexity to the wines. The vineyard’s microclimate, characterized by cool nights and warm days, allows for a slow ripening process, preserving acidity and enhancing the expression of Chardonnay.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo meticulous sorting to ensure optimal quality. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and purity. The wine is aged for 12 to 15 months on fine lees, with a portion matured in oak barrels to enhance complexity. This careful vinification process aims to highlight the wine’s elegance and the vineyard’s unique expression.

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Chablis Grand Cru Les Preuses presents a light yellow color with golden reflections. The nose is rich yet delicate, offering mineral, creamy, floral, and slightly iodized notes combined with a touch of honey and dried fruits. On the palate, the wine reveals a direct attack and a powerful, well-honed, and distinctive mid-palate. Aromas of citrus blend harmoniously with mineral and iodized notes from its outstanding terroir.

Food & Wine Pairing

This elegant Chardonnay pairs beautifully with seafood dishes such as grilled scallops, lobster, or oysters. Its crisp acidity and mineral backbone complement creamy sauces and rich textures, making it an excellent match for poultry dishes like roast chicken or turkey. For cheese pairings, consider soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert to enhance the wine’s subtle complexity.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve this wine chilled at 10°C to 12°C (50°F to 54°F) in a white wine glass to fully appreciate its aromatic nuances. Decanting is not necessary, but allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes after opening can enhance its expressive qualities. Enjoy within the next few years to experience its fresh and vibrant character.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. While the 2022 vintage is approachable in its youth, it possesses the structure and acidity to age gracefully for 10 to 15 years. Over time, the wine will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes of honey and toasted nuts emerging.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%