# L Chablis (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine Laroche
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Burgundy, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €32
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** wet stones, lemon, grapefruit, green apple, biscuit

## About this wine

Domaine Laroche's L Chablis 2023, also known as Chablis Saint Martin, is a white wine from the Chablis appellation in Burgundy, France, made from 100% Chardonnay. The 'Saint Martin' cuvée is a blend from the estate's prime vineyard plots across the appellation, cultivated on ancient limestone soils rich in fossilized seashells. The wine's name honors Saint Martin, the patron saint of Chablis, and symbolizes the producer's values of sharing and conviviality. Domaine Laroche has a long-standing history in Chablis, dating back to the 1850s, and is based at 'L'Obédiencerie,' a historic site with over a millennium of winemaking tradition. This cuvée is considered the flagship village wine of the domaine. The 2023 vintage is characterized by excellent quality and strong yields, with a profile that echoes the 2020 vintage, offering expressive fruit and balance.

## Interesting facts

- Named after Saint Martin, the patron saint of Chablis.
- Estate is based in a former monastery with 1000+ years of winemaking history.
- Vineyards are planted on ancient limestone soil with fossilized seashells.
- Flagship village cuvée symbolizing sharing and conviviality.

## Food pairing

The wine's high acidity cuts through the richness of seafood and fatty fish, while its minerality complements the briny notes of shellfish. Lean proteins are enhanced by the wine's crispness, and the subtle texture from lees aging can stand up to richer preparations.

## Wine making process

The L Chablis 2023 is produced from 100% Chardonnay grapes. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, with approximately 15% of the blend undergoing fermentation in used oak barrels. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for nine months on its fine lees, primarily in stainless steel tanks, with some sources indicating aging also in large wooden 'foudres' or casks. The winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention to allow the expression of the vineyard's terroir. Sustainable viticulture practices, including the avoidance of artificial pesticides and herbicides, are employed throughout the vineyards. The harvest for the 2023 vintage took place from September 7th to 21st.