Domaine Christian Moreau Pere Fils : Chablis Grand cru "Les Clos" 2014

The slopes of Les Clos are located on the right bank of the Serein River, with southern exposure. The soils here are very rocky with white, dense clays; Kimmeridgian marl with calcium carbonate. Average vine age is between 40 and 65 years old. Domaine Christian Moreau owns a total of 7.5 acres of this famous Grand Cru of Chablis, more than any other producer in the region. The Chardonnay grapes are harvested by hand, carried by small trailer which unloads the grapes by gentle vibration to avoid crushing, and hand sorted in the cellar to eliminate unripe or damaged grapes. This Grand Cru wine is aged in 65% stainless steel vats and 35% barrels for a period of six months. A sizeable 40% of the final blend is aged in oak cask, although only a small percentage is new barrels. The oak contact is unobtrusive and is a testament to the sheer power of this Grand Cru.

Tasting Note: This wine is showing well, but can soften with more age. With some immediate oak on the nose, aromas of white flower and mint infusing the citrus fruit, the acidity is bright and lively. On the palate, it is fresh and nicely balanced with lemongrass and a round mouthfeel  that give way to the traditional mineral backbone found in Chablis of this caliber. A beautiful mixture of fruit and structure, this wine can drink now and soften elegantly with a bit more age.