Maison des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Bougros 2018

Pierrick Laroche, the proud owner of Domaine des Hâtes, continues the legacy of his family's estate located in the picturesque village of Maligny, in the north-west sector of Chablis. Established by his father in the 1970s, Pierrick's family vineyard holdings have gradually expanded over time, resulting in the current size of around 33 hectares. After obtaining a degree in oenology from Beaune, Pierrick embarked on a journey to gain valuable experience by traveling the world and undertaking various internships. Armed with knowledge and a deep passion for winemaking, he returned home to take over the family vineyards and start producing his own wines. Pierrick's cellars, ingeniously built into the side of a hill in the village, allow for much of the winemaking process to be conducted by gravity ensuring gentle handling of the grapes. The vinification takes place traditionally in stainless steel tanks, while some of the Premier and Grand Cru wines undergo a small portion of aging in used barrels, allowing for a full malolactic fermentation. One of his oldest vineyard plots, Les Châtillons, planted in the early 1970s, sits just behind the hill of the Grand Crus and showcases the meticulous use of barrel aging, which adds complexity and depth to the cuvée. In 2016, Pierrick expanded his range by starting a small négoce operation, sourcing must from friends who predominantly farm on the left side of the river. This addition includes premier crus such as Beauroy, Beauregard and Vau de Vey, as well as the grand cru of Bougros. In 2019, Pierrick inherited 8 acres of vines from his father-in-law in the southern sector of Chablis, around the village of Courgis. This inheritance includes Petit Chablis, 5.5 acres of Chablis and just over half an acre of the premier cru Les Butteaux. Pierrick Laroche's dedication to his craft is evident in every bottle of wine he produces. With a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, his wines showcase the unique terroir of Chablis, captivating enthusiasts with their finesse, complexity and distinct character. As Pierrick continues to nurture and expand his vineyards, he upholds the family legacy while leaving his own mark on the world of Chablis winemaking. The name of Pierrick's Domaine, "hâtes" refers to an old agricultural unit of measure, similar to the English rod. It evokes the long and slender fields used for sowing, where the longer rows made plowing easier with fewer turns. The term "hâtes" was often used to describe such fields.

Pierrick’s parcel comes from the western end of Bougros, towards the top of the hill where the slope is only about 5%. Vinified in stainless steel, it was matured for 8 months in one old 800 litre barrel.
Bougros is the last Grand Cru on the western side of the hill and enjoys a south to south-westerly exposition. Pierrick’s parcel comes from the western end of Bougros, towards the top of the hill where the slope is only about 5%. Vinified in stainless steel, it was matured for 8 months in one old 600 litre barrel, adding an extra dimension of complexity to complement the profoundly concentrated fruit from this exceptional site.

The Maison des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Bougros 2018 is a beautifully perfumed wine that showcases the exceptional quality of this renowned Grand Cru vineyard. Crafted by Pierrick Laroche, this wine reflects his dedication to producing top-notch Chablis. The Chablis Grand Cru Bougros from Maison des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche is known for its true character and special nature, which requires patience to fully appreciate over the next decade or so. On the palate, one can expect a wine of great depth and complexity, with flavors that include citrus, ripe orchard fruits and a distinct minerality. The Maison des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Bougros 2018 exhibits  typical characteristics of Chablis Grand Cru, such as a harmonious balance of fruit, acidity and minerality. This Chablis Grand Cru Bougros has the potential to age gracefully, allowing its flavors to evolve and develop further complexity over time. It is recommended to cellar this wine for several years to fully experience its true potential. The Maison des Hâtes Pierrick Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Bougros 2018 is a wine of exceptional quality and finesse. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with seafood, poultry or creamy dishes, it is sure to impress with its elegance, depth and the expression of its Grand Cru terroir.

Another small cuvée, only barrel elevage, 3-4-year-old barrels, 12 months in barrel and 2-3 more months in tank before bottling. The oak is very modest here – the volume of aroma is impressive and with a cushioned slightly floral aspect. Vibrant in the mouth – I love the concentrated intensity here. A great finish again, one that ripples wider from the core… - Bill Nanson, Burgundy Report, January 2021.

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - France
Region - Chablis
Vintage - 2018
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%