2023 William Fevre Valmur Chablis Grand Cru, Burgundy

Sourced from parcels just beneath the forest, the 2023 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur opens with aromas of white flowers, pear and lemon oil, mingling with notes of oyster shell. Medium- to full-bodied, it reveals a chalky core and a layered, textural palate laden with racy acidity, concluding with a long, saline finish.

94+ points robertparker.com

The holding sits on the marly vein up top on the crest, looking east south and west. Pure light yellow, Excellent tension, crystalline fruit coats the teeth, a solid mass which is currently very much more tightly coiled than most. Really kicks on. Ten years minimum please. Tasted Jun 2023.

93-96 points Jasper Morris MW insideburgundy.com

Cut deep into the hillside between Les Clos and Vaudésir, the Grand Cru vineyard of Valmur forms a dramatic valley that produces some of the most structured and powerful wines in Chablis. The steep slopes are planted on classic Kimmeridgian limestone rich with fossilised marine shells, soils that give the wines their signature chalky minerality and remarkable longevity. Domaine William Fèvre, founded in 1959, is one of the most respected estates in the region and holds exceptional parcels across the Grand Cru hillside. Winemaker Didier Séguier guides the wines with a philosophy centred on careful vineyard work and restrained cellar practices so the identity of each vineyard remains clearly expressed.

The wine shows a pale gold colour with brilliant clarity. Aromas open with lemon zest, green apple and white peach layered with flint, oyster shell and delicate white blossom. With time in the glass subtle notes of almond, hazelnut and gentle brioche begin to emerge, adding complexity without overshadowing the mineral core. The palate is concentrated yet precise, with vibrant acidity carrying flavours of citrus, ripe orchard fruit and chalky minerality across a powerful structure. Valmur often shows a touch more depth and intensity than some of the other Grand Crus, finishing long, saline and beautifully balanced.

This is a wine built for patience and will continue to evolve gracefully for twenty years or more. It pairs superbly with lobster, scallops, grilled turbot, oysters or refined seafood dishes.