Chablis is a wine-growing region in the northern part of Bourgogne. The only grape variety grown there is Chardonnay. There are more than 100 km between Chablis and the actual core area of Bourgogne. Chardonnay is also the most important grape variety in this main part of the region. The soil in Chablis is predestined for this noble variety. However, the style of a Chablis differs enormously and must be seen as completely independent.
For me, a good Chablis is the prototype of a pure, very clear and mineral wine. Saint Martin is a prime example of this. I am always amazed by the clarity and precision of the wines and it is not as easy for me to describe the character of a good Chablis as it is with other wines. You simply have to discover it for yourself and let yourself be captivated by it. I wish you much pleasure in doing so.

Profile

Winemaker: Domaine Laroche
Grape varieties: 100% Chardonnay
Vintage: 2014
Region: Appellation Village Chablis
Soil: Kimmeridgian
Ideal drinking temperature: 10 degrees Celsius
Price: from 17,50 € / bottle

The wine

The Saint Martin Chablis is a cuvée of the best plots of the Domaine Laroche. Traditionally, a Chablis is fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged on the lees for several months to round it off. A Chablis is not the most bouquet-rich wine, but it still fascinates with its delicate and very fine aromas of white flowers and ripe yellow fruit aromas. On the palate, it is incredibly fresh, gripping, long and complex. The freshness comes from the very typical mineral notes. It should not be drunk too cool, otherwise its fine notes will be suppressed. Give it a little time in the glass and it will develop wonderfully and delight more with every sip.

The winemaker and the region

The history of Laroche begins in 1850 and goes hand in hand with the development and classification of the vineyards in Chablis. Laroche was a pioneer and at the same time the "heir" of the monks who, after discovering the unique terroir (location factors of an agricultural area: including the interplay of climate and soil of a particular area) in Chablis, began to grow wine there. Chardonnay loves limestone soil and there is plenty of it in Chablis, from a very specific limestone soil. More than 140 million years ago, the sea covered the Chablis wine region and the Kimmeridgian stage (a Jurassic period) was formed during this time. Among other things, the soil contains tiny fossil remains. This special terroir and the symbiosis with the Chardonnay grape variety produces such clear and particularly mineral wines.
Today, Domaine Laroche has 90 hectares of vineyards in Chablis and a team of 30 employees who produce excellent wines in a modern cellar.

Perfect with

Excellent with ceviche, scallops prepared with saffron, filet mignon, Chaource soft cheese or oysters.

Would you like more wine tips from Ina?

Let the sommelier inspire you! It's always worth taking a look at "Ina's wine tips" archive. From crémant to red wine, there is something for every taste!