Product Description
An Iconic Expression of Chablis
The Domaine François Raveneau Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru Chablis 2022 is an exceptional wine that embodies the true essence of Chablis. From one of the most revered estates in the region, this wine is crafted from the estate's holdings in two distinguished lieux-dits: the sun-drenched Chapelot and the cooler, racier Pied d'Aloup. Montée de Tonnerre is situated on a south-facing slope, sharing its topography with the Grand Crus, which imbues the wine with an incredible mineral character and a unique sense of place. The 2022 vintage delivers a perfect balance between elegance, complexity, and power, showcasing Raveneau’s trademark precision and finesse.
Domaine Raveneau’s meticulous approach to viticulture and winemaking ensures the wine’s complexity while maintaining the purity of the terroir. Fermented using indigenous yeasts and aged in a mix of stainless steel and barrel, the Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru reflects the Domaine's commitment to traditional, low-intervention techniques. With its elegance, vibrancy, and ability to evolve over time, this wine is a sublime expression of Chablis at its finest. The 2022 vintage, with its refreshing acidity and precise minerality, promises years of development, making it a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Maker
Domaine François Raveneau: Masters of Chablis
Domaine François Raveneau is widely considered to be one of the greatest estates in Chablis, producing wines of exceptional quality that are coveted by collectors and wine enthusiasts worldwide. Established in 1948 by François Raveneau, the estate has garnered a reputation for its inimitable style, which combines precision, depth, and a profound respect for the region’s unique terroir. Today, the estate is still family-owned and operated, with François’ sons Bernard and Jean-Marie continuing the legacy of excellence. The addition of Bernard’s daughter, Isabelle, into the operation ensures that the Domaine remains in capable hands for generations to come.
The Domaine’s holdings are a treasure trove of Chablis' finest vineyards, including three Grand Crus—Blanchot, Les Clos, and Valmur—and several Premier Crus such as Montée de Tonnerre, Les Vaillons, and Butteaux. The Raveneau family’s commitment to traditional winemaking methods, combined with their careful vineyard management, allows the wines to express their terroir authentically. Known for their longevity, the wines of Domaine Raveneau are made to evolve gracefully over time, with many of their top wines developing in complexity and depth for decades.
Philosophy
Tradition, Precision, and Patience
At Domaine Raveneau, winemaking is guided by a philosophy rooted in tradition, precision, and patience. The Raveneau family follows a meticulous approach to viticulture, using low yields, hand harvesting, and careful selection of the finest grapes to ensure the highest quality fruit. The family’s commitment to sustainable practices and their respect for the natural environment is evident in every step of the winemaking process. The wines are fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in a combination of stainless steel and used oak barrels to maintain the purity of the fruit and showcase the unique characteristics of each vintage.
The winemaking process at Domaine Raveneau is a reflection of the family’s belief in minimal intervention, allowing the wine to evolve naturally and express the essence of the land. The wines are crafted to develop with age, gaining complexity and character as they mature in the bottle. This long-term vision ensures that the Domaine’s wines not only provide immediate pleasure but also have the potential to age and evolve over decades, making them a true testament to the family’s dedication to quality and tradition.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Elegant and Complex Aromas
The nose of the Domaine François Raveneau Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru Chablis 2022 is elegant and refined, with a delicate yet complex aromatic profile. Initially, there are enticing notes of white flowers, wet stone, and citrus zest, followed by subtle hints of oyster shell and iodine. As the wine opens up, more nuanced aromas of spice and a touch of wood emerge, adding depth to the nose. This harmonious blend of minerality, fruit, and spice is a hallmark of Raveneau’s style, offering a preview of the wine’s complexity to come.
Palate
Vibrant, Balanced, and Layered
On the palate, the wine displays a remarkable balance between richness and freshness. The medium-weight body is framed by bright acidity, which provides structure and precision. The flavors of lemon zest, green apple, and white peach are complemented by a subtle creaminess, with a touch of almond and hazelnut from the aging process. The wine’s vibrant minerality is present throughout, creating a clean, refreshing mouthfeel that is both elegant and powerful. The intensity of the fruit is matched by the wine’s crispness, resulting in a palate that is both dynamic and harmonious.
Finish
Long, Precise, and Mineral
The finish is long and persistent, with the wine’s mineral backbone continuing to shine through. The lingering flavors of citrus, green apple, and crushed stones are complemented by a slight salinity, enhancing the wine’s refreshing quality. The finish is clean and precise, with a gentle touch of oak that provides a subtle richness without overwhelming the fruit. This elegant and mineral-driven finish is a perfect conclusion to a wine that demonstrates both power and finesse.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - France
Region - Chablis
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13%
