Product Information:
In recent years, this wine has displayed even greater definition and class. With organic viticulture, new equipment, and nearly 20 years of expertise, Fabien Moreau is producing exceptional wines, and the 2023 1er Cru Chablis is looking spectacular. The Vaillon stands out above the village-level crus, with elevated floral notes, energetic citrus, and beeswax emerging with aeration. The palate is nicely balanced, opening with a touch of honey, vivid fruit, and a racy acidity that lingers on the finish.
The Vaillon appellation is located on the left bank of Chablis. Domaine Christian Moreau has six parcels totaling 4.7 hectares in the historical heart of Vaillons. The fruit is sourced from vines that are 30 to 70+ years old, all south/south-east-facing. The soil here is from the Kimmeridgian period, rich in clay-limestone marls with marine fossils, specifically small oyster fossils known as Exogyra Virgula. The fruit is hand-harvested, fermented with natural yeast, and aged for 6-8 months—two-thirds in tank and one-third in barrique.
Maker:
Domaine Christian Moreau is a historic name in Chablis. Led by Christian Moreau and his son Fabien, the estate has upheld its family legacy while producing some of the region’s finest wines. Their exceptional vineyard holdings include nearly 8 hectares of Grand Cru out of Chablis' total 92 hectares, making this small but remarkable estate one of the leading producers of Chablis. While their holdings in Petit, village, and 1er Cru Chablis are impressive, their range of Grand Cru vineyards truly shines. Their notable parcels include approximately 3 hectares in Les Clos, 0.41 hectares in Clos des Hospices dans Les Clos, and smaller holdings in Valmur, Blanchots, and Vaudésir. Consistently producing classic Chablis wines, Christian Moreau is a must-try producer for any Chablis lover.
Philosophy:
These exceptional vineyard sites, combined with old vines, meticulous winemaking and careful attention to every step of production, have resulted in wines that are widely regarded as some of the finest in Chablis.
In the vineyard, they employ ploughing, organic fertilisers, and have maintained a pesticide-free environment since 2004, alongside daily care to prevent disease. Since 2005, they have transitioned to organic agriculture across the vineyard, achieving Ecocert certification with the 2013 vintage. This commitment to sustainability has further enhanced the expression of their vineyards.
Harvesting is done entirely by hand, with careful selection of grapes before pressing. Vinification relies solely on natural yeasts, with a balanced use of oak barrels and stainless steel tanks to highlight each wine's unique expression. They implement a comprehensive yield management strategy to enhance grape concentration and showcase the terroir. With investments in new tanks and other winemaking techniques, their cellar is equipped for separate vinification of each parcel accurately represent terroir. The results are evident in each vintage.
The wines of Domaine Christian Moreau Pere et Fils are known for their precision, clear typicity and elegance. They have the ability to age gracefully while providing immense pleasure throughout their lives Fabien Moreau, who took over as winemaker in 2002, has already made a significant impact. With previous experience in New Zealand and a deep respect for terroir, Fabien is a visionary winemaker. The wines of Christian Moreau Pere et Fils are authentic, distinctive and of exceptional quality.
Nose – White Florals, Honey Citrus, Lanolin
Elegant white florals and honeyed citrus, with a hint of lanolin that intensifies with aeration.
Palate – Whiff of Smoke, Waxy, Apricot
A touch of smoke and honey opens up to ripe yellow cherry and apricot flavours, anchored by a steely core and vibrant acidity.
Finish – Lemon Zest, Almond Meal, Balanced
The finish is beautifully balanced, with a touch of yeasty savouriness and a hint of lemon zest and almond meal.
The 2023 Chablis Vaillon 1er Cru is certainly a level up over the Village Cru. Slightly more floral, hints of lanolin come through with aeration. The palate is nicely balanced with a touch of honeyed opening. Plus and pure, with lower acidity than the previous vintage but pretty and welcoming. - Neal Martin, Vinous, 88-90 Points
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - France
Region - Chablis
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
