La Chablisienne - Chablis Grand Cru Le Fief des Grenouilles 2007

Chablis’s leading producer consistently delivers a faithful interpretation of the appellation, thanks to the precise and meticulous work of winemaker Vincent Bartement. As always, the wines are released one vintage behind; this year’s release is from 2016, a complicated vintage in which the Mont-de-Milieu region fared very well. Other terroirs that the winery usually handles well taste a little less impressive this time around—let’s wait for the 2017s!

Founded in 1923, La Chablisienne is a cooperative winery comprising nearly 300 winegrowers and representing a quarter of the Chablis vineyards; it celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2013. It is a modern, high-performing organization that contributes significantly to the appellation’s reputation. The Grenouilles grand cru is one of its flagship wines.

The largest producer of Chablis ranks among France’s finest cooperatives, demonstrating equal skill in business and winemaking. Among the many vintages produced, it can be challenging to choose, but all the wines now benefit from flawless technical expertise in pressing and aging on the lees. The standout specialties are the consistently excellent Chablis Vieilles Vignes and the Premiers Crus in heavy bottles, which rival the finest wines from private estates—not to mention the famous Grand Cru Château Grenouilles, which should not be drunk too young! The entry-level wines have improved significantly and have shed the reductive notes that once characterized them. La Chablisienne is in fine form!