Pierrick Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume 2021

The domain farms 1.1 ha in this subsection of Fourchaume which is located towards the northern part of Fourchaume, a top Premier Cru vineyard noted for growing on similar contours as the Grand Crus above the right bank of the Serein. Pierrick's vines average 25 years with some up to 35 years old. Vinified with indigenous yeast with a very long slow alcoholic fermentation of 2-3 months. The wine is aged in stainless steel for 60% and in aged barrels for 40% with bottling in spring for a total elevage of 18 months giving a wine of excellent complexity and depth.

‘A mix of tank and barrel – 60% tank. Protected by aspersion here. A broader, more open aromatic – slightly airy – greatly inviting! Extra width, cooler fruit, mineral and silk – I hardly see the 2/3rds wood elevage. Such a mobile, complex energetic but pure thing. Bravo – fine finishing intensity with a broad wave of finishing salinity. Top!’ Bill Nanson, Burgundy Report, February 2023.