Chanson Chablis Premier Cru Montmains 2022

Winery Background and History

Maison Chanson, originally founded in Burgundy in 1750, operates both as a négociant and estate producer. Over its long history it expanded holdings into the Chablis region, applying its winemaking philosophy to northern terroirs. Under ownership by Bollinger, Chanson has invested in vineyard renewal and cellar upgrades, enabling its Chablis premiers crus (such as Montmains) to reflect both traditional style and modern precision.

Producer and Wine Maker

Produced by Chanson Père & Fils, the winemaking team sources fruit from the Montmains climat in Chablis’s premier cru zone. They emphasize low intervention, precise sorting, controlled fermentations, and appropriate oak or tank aging. Their objective is to balance freshness, minerality, and complexity while allowing the site’s flinty character to emerge.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Montmains is a premier cru climate in Chablis, located on mid-slope facing south or southeast exposures, with Kimmeridgian marl and limestone soils. These soils provide drainage, mineral complexity, and reflective heat. The climate is cool continental with maritime influence; the nights are cold, helping retain acidity, and vintage variation is significant in this northern latitude.

Vinification & Aging Methods

In 2022, fermentation was conducted with temperature control (natural fermentation up to ~13 °C) and the wine was aged in stainless steel for 11 months (no heavy oak). Some producers add light lees stirring, gentle fining, and minimal filtration to preserve clarity and minerality. Montmains wines are usually vinified in stainless or neutral vessels to highlight freshness and flint over wood.

Tasting notes

Pale gold color with greenish hues. Aromas of citrus (lemon, lime), white orchard fruits (pear, apple), and floral notes, accompanied by classic Chablis minerality and flint. On the palate: crisp acidity, chalky texture, bright fruit, and saline / stony undertones. The finish is clean and persistent with stony grip.

Food & Wine Pairing

Pairs beautifully with oysters, scallops, white fish (sole, halibut), shellfish in light sauces, sushi, creamy poultry dishes, goat cheese or soft cheeses. Also excellent with light soups or vegetable gastriques.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 10-12 °C. Use a white wine glass that concentrates aromatics. No decanting is needed, but allow a few minutes in the glass to open.

Storage and Aging Potential

With proper cellaring (12-14 °C, stable humidity, no light), this style should evolve for 5 to 8 years, gradually developing honey, hazelnut or tertiary mineral notes, while retaining acidity and tension.

Grape Varietals & percentage used

100 % Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5 % (as listed in retail descriptions)