2023 Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis, Burgundy

Clear and pure, with oyster shell, lemon rind and blanched almond aromas. Salty and minerally with a medium body, lively acidity and a creamy, saline finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink now. 

92 points jamessuckling.com

Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis is a classic and beautifully pure expression of Chardonnay from the northernmost reaches of Burgundy. Based in Préhy, just southwest of the village of Chablis, Jean-Marc Brocard is one of the region’s most respected producers, known for combining traditional practices with a thoughtful, sustainable approach to viticulture. The estate farms many of its vineyards organically and biodynamically, and Brocard’s wines are celebrated for their precision, minerality and sense of place.

This Chablis is made entirely from Chardonnay grown on the region’s signature Kimmeridgian limestone soils, rich in ancient marine fossils and minerals. These soils, coupled with the cool climate of Chablis, produce wines with bright acidity, citrus-driven profiles and a clean, stony finish that sets them apart from richer styles found further south in Burgundy.

In the winery, fermentation takes place in stainless steel using indigenous yeasts, with no oak ageing. This hands-off approach is designed to highlight the natural vibrancy and saline character of the terroir. The wine spends time on lees after fermentation to add subtle texture and complexity without sacrificing freshness.

In the glass, Brocard’s Chablis opens with aromas of lemon zest, green apple, oyster shell and white flowers. The palate is precise and linear, with citrus fruit, crushed stone, and a bracing acidity that leads into a chalky, lingering finish. There’s a quiet power to the wine—it's restrained yet full of energy, with an almost crystalline purity that is unmistakably Chablisien.

Perfectly suited to fresh oysters, grilled prawns, lemon-dressed salads or goat cheese, this wine also shines with sashimi, white fish in beurre blanc, or a simple roast chicken with thyme and garlic. It’s best enjoyed in its youth to capture its freshness, but will develop beautifully over three to five years.

Jean-Marc Brocard’s Chablis is a go-to for lovers of mineral-driven white wine and a benchmark for those discovering the style. It consistently offers both quality and typicity, delivering true Chablis character without excess weight or oak influence.