Product Information:
This ideal site gives a roundness and generosity compared to the more elevated Folatieres which is just above on a slightly steeper slope. This wine offers a lovely fullness with great length in the mouth owing to its old vine (average 71 years), along with aromas of ripe and candied fruit.
Premier Cru Clavoilons lies right in the middle of the Puligny Appellation between Perrieres to the north and Les Pucelles bordering on the south side. Only 2 families have ownership in this tiny 5.5855 ha vineyard, Chavy family have 0.7895 ha and the rest belonging to the various branches of the illustrious Leflaive family (replanting their plot in 1970’s). Here Jean-Louis has 0.32 ha of vines planted in 1952 just below Folatieres. Eleven months in the barrel followed by a further seven in stainless-steel tanks. 25-30% new barrels.
"Jean-Louis Chavy’s wines are a masterclass in finesse, showcasing the purity of Puligny-Montrachet’s terroir." - Jancis Robinson.
Maker:
The Chavy family has been rooted in Puligny-Montrachet for over 200 years, but it was not until 1986 that Gérard Chavy began to estate-bottle his wines, previously selling them to négociants. Following Gérard's retirement around 2005, the estate was divided into two separate entities managed by his sons, Jean-Louis and Alain Chavy.
Jean-Louis Chavy has since developed a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, complete with a temperature-controlled cellar situated at the base of the village. This allows him to work comfortably while ensuring the wines are stored in optimal conditions. His son, Paul Chavy, has been part of the estate since before the pandemic and has embarked on creating his own range of wines, sourcing fruit from regions including Saint-Aubin and as far as Gevrey-Chambertin. The Chavy family continues to uphold a legacy of quality and tradition in their winemaking, offering a tantalising glimpse into the heart of Burgundy.
For father and son terroir expression is paramount, with wines crafted in a consistent manner allowing the unique soil and exposure to shine through. Jean-Louis and Paul Chavy’s wines are effortless and unforced, showcasing exceptional fruit purity and a clear expression of terroir in each 1er cru. With his son Paul now working full-time at the estate after completing his winemaking studies, the added support in both the vineyard and cellar translates to even greater precision and clarity in every bottle. These wines embody a classic style, aging and developing gracefully over time. Quantities are always limited, and they sell out quickly upon release. So best to grab them while you can.
The Philosophy:
Vinification is classic with whole bunch pressing and 24 hours of settling with temperature control and only natural yeasts used for fermentation. Jean-Louis has not used any battonage on any cuvees for some years now. The average age of vines at this estate is impressive with most vineyards now aged between 30 to 50 years old though some in Folatieres and Clavoillons amongst the oldest planted in 1952.
For the elevage of the wines the use of new oak is restrained with the village Puligny seeing only 15% new oak and the 1er cru’s just 25%. Recent years have seen a move towards 350 litre barrels for ageing to have less oak influence. Unfortunately there are no Grand cru vineyards among his holdings, however his 1er cru’s are located very close to some of the best vineyards in the heart of Puligny.
Nose - Stone Fruits, Ripe, Candied Fruit
There is a lovely density to the aromas and to the core of this wine.
Palate - Lively, Yellow Fruits, Thread of Minerals
Dense fruits. The palate is lively and the minerality zesty, which lightens the concentrated character.
Finish - Bright Citrus, Chalky, Nutty
Bright, faintly nutty-savoury, with citrus fruits linger on the finish.
The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - France
Region- Burgundy
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%
