2023 Pierrick Laroche Les Butteaux Maison des Hates Chablis 1er Cru Magnum 1.5L, Burgundy

Les Butteaux sits within the Montmains Premier Cru sector on Chablis’ left bank, a cooler, wind exposed slope that produces wines of tension and mineral drive. Maison des Hâtes is the domaine of Pierrick Laroche, who left the larger family business to craft small, terroir focused wines with meticulous vineyard attention. Farming is thoughtful and increasingly organic in approach, with low yields and careful canopy work to preserve acidity and site definition. The philosophy is simple but demanding, precision in the vineyard, restraint in the cellar.

Fermentation is carried out to protect purity, with a combination of stainless steel and carefully chosen oak used to build texture without masking the limestone core. Lees ageing adds depth and breadth while the acidity remains firm. The aim is to highlight Les Butteaux’s naturally structured, saline personality rather than push overt richness.

Pale gold in colour, the aromas open with lemon zest, green apple and white peach layered with oyster shell, flint and a subtle smoky note. The palate is medium bodied and tightly framed, with citrus and orchard fruit wrapped in bright acidity and a chalk edged texture. Flavours stretch long through a mineral finish that feels cool, saline and persistent.

It pairs beautifully with oysters, scallops, grilled fish and goat cheese. While already impressive for its precision, it will cellar confidently for twelve to fifteen years, developing hazelnut and honeyed nuance.

This is Premier Cru Chablis defined by limestone and wind, focused, mineral and quietly powerful.