Chablis
Chablis was one of the stand-out categories of last year’s competition. It couldn’t repeat 2019’s slew of medals (including nine Golds) but this was more down to a reduced number of entries – probably the result of the frost problems of 2017 – than anything else. Overall, the quality was still good.
The issue, perhaps, was more one of style. Some of these (mostly 2018s) were surprisingly fruit-driven, others in the steelier, more mineral spectrum – and our tasting teams were sometimes split on which style they preferred.
Generally, though, a strong performance from a must-list area, with commendably fair pricing throughout.
From The Tasting Teams
‘Some didn’t show personality and steeliness, which is what Chablis is all about. The best wines allow the Chablis to do its magic, and the terroir talks.’ Emanuel Pesqueira, Edwardian Hotels London
‘What I’m expecting from Chablis is tropical fruit, slight creaminess and a lasting finish with minerality, not painfully high acidity.’ Gary Newborough, The Aristologist
‘In the cheaper AC Chablis there was a lot of high acidity without evidence of fruit. At the mid-price level typical Chablis characteristics started to show: minerality, chalkiness, green apple and honey.’ Nigel Lister, St. Swithins Wine Shippers
‘2017 was mostly good. 2018 was a bit warm, and it could impress or not depend on the winemaking style. In general, though, Chablis can suit everyone at the right price.’ Lionel Periner, team leader
‘In the cru vineyards, the freshness was the thing that caught my eye - it gave the wines more drinkability. For me, that’s what distinguishes Chablis from all the other Chardonnay.’ Filippo Pastorini, consultant
‘Chablis is a super important category and I’m happy to see some good wines.’ Tim Smith, Winesurfer Consulting
‘With Chablis the price is consistent. The quality is consistent. There’s no messing around.’ Rémi Cousin, Le Gavroche
‘Lovely, amazing – vive la France! A really good flight.’ Chiara Sieni, MM Grocery