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Petit-Chablis

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On both sides of the Serein Valley, the Petit-Chablis Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) was established in 1944. It forms one of the outer rings of the Chablis region, in the Yonne department. Wines bearing this appellation may be produced in all the communes of the Chablis wine region.

Petit-Chablis wines feature aromas of white flowers intertwined with citrus notes against a mineral backdrop. Hints of peach and white fruits are sometimes present. The palate is generally lively and light, with well-balanced acidity. This lively attack gives way to a pleasant roundness. Its briny character is typical of the region. Its richness combines with its freshness to offer the palate a lingering and perfectly composed sensation. Petit-Chablis is best enjoyed young, but letting it age for two years is ideal. Petit-Chablis enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the wines offered by Domaine William Fèvre or La Chablisienne.

Le Petit Chablis: A Great White Wine

Petit Chablis white wine bears the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée designation. It is a wine native to the northern part of Burgundy. Made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, this wine has a bright, light gold color. Green highlights can be seen.

On the nose, the Petit Chablis reveals aromas of white flowers such as acacia and hawthorn, combined with citrus notes: grapefruit and lemon. A mineral undertone enhances this symphony of subtle flavors. It is not uncommon to detect notes of white fruits such as peach as well.

On the palate, Petit Chablis offers liveliness combined with lightness—a subtle blend! It then reveals a distinct roundness on the palate. Its rich texture leaves a lingering, utterly delicious fruity sensation. Iodine-like aromas are another characteristic of Petit Chablis, which thrives in vineyards located far from the coast.

Petit Chablis is a dry white wine that can be classified as a still wine—that is, one that does not produce bubbles when the bottle is opened. There is no fermentation stage to create bubbles.

The Perfect Pairings with Petit Chablis

The briny aromas of this Petit Chablis white wine pair perfectly with seafood. It’s also an ideal wine to pair with goat cheese, a fruity Gruyère, or even a bold Gouda. Petit Chablis can be served as an aperitif or paired with summer salads that subtly blend fresh greens and zesty fruit.

The ideal serving temperature for a Petit Chablis is 13°C. For wine lovers, we recommend enjoying it in a Burgundy white wine glass. Pour no more than 10 cl so you can fully appreciate every nuance and aroma of the Petit Chablis.

Geographical features and climatic conditions

Petit Chablis white wine is produced from grapes grown in the Chablis and Grand Auxerrois vineyards. The total area under cultivation reached 1,100 hectares in 2018.

The vineyards thrive at the top of the hillside or at the edge of the plateau, at an average altitude ranging from 230 to 280 meters, on either side of the lush Serein Valley. The soil is calcareous or even loamy, and sandy in some places.

In terms of climate, this valley has a temperate oceanic climate with continental influences. The amount of sunshine in the Chablis vineyards is slightly below the national average.

The Petit Chablis AOC

This Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) has existed since 1944. It encompasses vineyards located on both sides of the Serein Valley, in the Yonne department. Petit Chablis shares its terroir with other AOCs, such as Chablis Grand Cru and Village Chablis Premier Cru.

Among all Chablis wines, Petit Chablis accounts for about 19% of production. It also holds the European Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) label.

For more information, visit the website at Petit-Chablis