2023 William Fevre Fourchaume Chablis Premier Cru, Burgundy

The 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume, sourced from a 3.6-hectare, clay-rich, south-facing parcel at the bottom of the slope in Vaulorent, opens with aromas of orange peel, white flowers and oyster shell. Medium- to full-bodied, the palate is fleshy yet lively, underpinned by bright acidity and concludes with a long, saline finish. This cuvée is not produced every year.

92 points robertparker.com

The Fourchaume bottling comes from Vaulorent, with certain plots – they have 3.60ha here - being used as Fourchaume instead in larger vintages. Lovely bright lemon and lime colour. Fair weight, quite open, a little stony note behind, good length, marl brings the dimension. Extra length too. Drink from 2027-2034. Tasted Jun 2024.

90-92 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

Fourchaume is one of the most celebrated Premier Cru vineyards in Chablis, sitting on the right bank of the Serein River just north of the Grand Cru slopes. Its sun drenched exposure and classic Kimmeridgian limestone soils give the wines a combination of generosity and mineral precision that has made the site famous. Domaine William Fèvre has been a cornerstone of Chablis since its founding in 1959 and today holds one of the region’s most important collections of Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards. Under the direction of winemaker Didier Séguier the estate follows a philosophy of careful vineyard management and restrained cellar practices, allowing the individuality of each cru and the purity of Chardonnay to shine through.

The wine shows a pale gold colour with brilliant clarity. Aromas open with lemon zest, green apple and ripe pear layered with white flowers, flint and a subtle oyster shell minerality. As the wine evolves in the glass gentle notes of almond, brioche and spice add further complexity. The palate is generous yet precise with vibrant acidity carrying flavours of citrus and orchard fruit supported by a chalky mineral backbone drawn from the limestone soils. There is both richness and freshness here, finishing long and saline with the unmistakable signature of Chablis.

This Premier Cru will continue to develop beautifully for ten to fifteen years and pairs superbly with oysters, lobster, grilled scallops, crab or delicate seafood dishes.