A one-of-a-kind Premier Cru Chablis from the master of Burgundy!
Albert Bichot’s Fourchaume 2019 Chablis 1er Cru is an absolute must-try at least once in your lifetime if you genuinely want to savour a truly exceptional Chablis from an exceptional vintage. The concentration of fruit and the unparalleled style of Chablis are enhanced with depth and complexity by the touch of the oak.
The Bichot family, with a history dating back to 1831, stands as one of Burgundy’s most prominent wine leaders. Their expertise spans from the heart of the Beaune Valley to the renowned Chablis vineyards, where their wines consistently deliver exceptional quality. However, 2019 stands out as an exceptional year for Burgundy. It is whispered that vintages ending in 9 are destined for greatness, and 2019 is no exception. Jancis Robinson MW describes the 2019 whites as rich and full-bodied, featuring generous and ripe fruit complemented by fresh and lively acidity.
The Fourchaume vineyard is one of the largest 1er Crus in Chablis (covering 320 hectares). This creates a range of different mesoclimates. While certain parts of the hill share similar exposure to those of the Chablis Grand Cru vineyards situated in the Fontenay Valley (to which Fourchaume wines are frequently compared), the soils at Fourchaume exhibit remarkable similarities to those of the Grand Cru vineyards.We’ve already mentioned the similarity to Grand Cru twice, so you can imagine the level of quality we’re discussing.
For Albert Bichot’s Fourchaume 2019 Chablis 1er Cru, fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, while 35% of the wine ferments in first-to-fifth-use French oak barrels. This combination imparts an elegant and discreet oaky character, adding depth and richness to the wine. The wine is left in contact with the lees for nine months, resulting in an oily texture and a more robust structure.
Albert Bichot’s Fourchaume 2019 Chablis 1er Cru is a symphony of the harmonious blend of minerality and freshness characteristic of Chablis, complemented by the intensity and complexity of oak!