Clement Lavallee Chablis Les Ardillers, 2019, 750ML

Feature

Tasting Note

Wine Advocate 91, William Kelley

An incredible début, the 2019 Chablis Les Ardillers is Lavallée's first release, and he has hit the ground running. Opening in the glass with notes of citrus zest, warm bread, waxy citrus rind and dried white flower, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and concentrated, its satiny attack segueing into a taut, chiseled mid-palate. Concluding with a long, chalky finish, it is worth a special effort to seek out.

Winemaking

• Vineyards & Viticulture
  Froma 1.6-hectare parcel in the heart of the slope that is known for its exceptional clay- and limestone-rich soil.
• Soils
  Clay over limestone
• Harvest & Vinification
  After pneumatic pressing and gentle racking at low temperature, the wine ferments in stainless steel tanks. Native yeast. 60% of production is aged in neutral oak for one year, the other 40% in stainless steel. After assemblage, the wine ages a further six months in stainless steel. No malolactic fermentation. No fining or filtration.

Winery

Clément Lavallée, a descendant of Chablis winemakers, launched his own label in 2019. His journey began with an early interest in oenology, prompting him to travel across France and beyond in search of inspiration. 

Along the way, he honed his biodynamic knowledge at Domaine Verret, Domaine des Terres de Velle, and Armand Heitz, specializing in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. His travels also took him to prestigious places like Château Margaux and Domaine Chapoutier, enriching his expertise.

Clément's insist organic vineyard practices include eschewing chemicals and utilizing natural yeast in his cellars. Acquiring 1.6 hectares of vineyards in Chablis and sourcing grapes from Saint-Bris and Côtes d'Auxerre, his innovative methods signal a new chapter for Burgundy wines.