2023 Chablis Grand Cru “Les Preuses”
The yields were very low for the Grand Cru Les Preuses (35 hectolitres per hectare). It brings a magnificent weight and concentration on the palate but without missing the elegant, gentle touch of this climat. It is impressively complex. I can’t recommend this wine enough.
At Domaine Samuel Billaud the grapes are harvested by both hand and machine for the Petit Chablis and Chablis and only by hand for the 1er Cru and Grand Cru vineyards. In the vineyard, the yields are managed strictly to accentuate the concentration of the grapes. The harvest date is of vital importance in this regard and Samuel chooses the date without any compromise. As a result it can sometimes take up to four weeks to harvest his plots. This ensures that every plot is at optimal ripeness. Once picked, the grapes are quickly brought to the winery and pressed in the pneumatic press. Then the juice undergoes its alcoholic and malo-lactic fermentation partly in small stainless steel tanks and 400 litres barrels. Finally, the wines are matured for 12 months on fine lees in stainless steel tanks. - Clos Cachet, Importer.