2023 Le Domaine d'Henri Fourchaume Chablis Premier Cru, Burgundy

From one of Chablis’ most recognised Premier Cru sites on the right bank of the Serein River, Le Domaine d’Henri crafts Fourchaume with a focus on purity, minerality and understated power. Established by Michel Laroche as a separate project to highlight specific vineyard expressions, the domaine draws on generations of Chablis knowledge while embracing precise, modern vineyard work. Fourchaume’s prized Kimmeridgian limestone soils and favourable exposure allow Chardonnay to achieve both ripeness and the cool, saline tension that defines great Chablis.

A pale lemon gold with green flashes shimmers in the glass. Aromas unfold with lemon zest, green apple and white peach layered with oyster shell, crushed chalk and a delicate hint of flint. There is an immediate sense of clarity and lift, capturing the chiselled elegance of this classic Premier Cru terroir.

The palate is taut yet textural, delivering citrus and stone fruit flavours framed by vibrant acidity and a pronounced mineral backbone. Subtle nuances of hazelnut, wet stone and gentle lees creaminess build through the mid palate, leading to a long, mouthwatering finish that feels both precise and quietly powerful. This Fourchaume will reward careful cellaring over eight to twelve years as notes of brioche, honey and savoury complexity slowly emerge.

Imagine freshly shucked oysters glistening on crushed ice, grilled scallops brushed with butter, or a simple roast chicken carved as laughter drifts around the table. A record like Brian Eno Another Green World or some soft vintage French pop humming in the background, the night feeling cool and luminous, just like the wine in the glass.