2024 Domaine Roy Vaulorent Chablis 1er Cru Magnum 1.5L, Burgundy

Has all the extra complexity expected from this prime premier cru site. Feels and tastes like a grand cru with an extra layer (or two) of concentration and power. Aged for 15 months on lees which has added a lot of extra interest. Great example. Good Value

17+/20 Andy Howard MW, Jancis Robinson

Domaine Roy produces Chablis that captures the purity and distinctive mineral character of northern Burgundy. Vaulorent is one of the region's most prized Premier Cru vineyards, sitting immediately alongside the Grand Cru hillside. Its exceptional position has earned it a reputation for producing Chardonnay with impressive depth, finesse and ageing potential, often approaching Grand Cru quality.

Located within the larger Fourchaume Premier Cru, Vaulorent shares the same hillside exposure and Kimmeridgian limestone geology as neighbouring Grand Cru Les Preuses. The combination of chalky soils and a favourable aspect produces wines with concentrated fruit, vibrant acidity and a particularly fine mineral structure.

Pale gold with delicate green highlights. Fresh lemon, white peach and ripe pear mingle with citrus blossom, crushed oyster shell and a hint of toasted almond. The palate is beautifully concentrated, with juicy orchard fruit, bright acidity and a silky, finely textured middle. Subtle notes of wet stone, lemon oil and sea spray carry through a long, elegant, saline finish.

Try it with grilled King George whiting and lemon, steamed crab with ginger and chives, or a delicate leek and ricotta tart. Its depth and freshness would also be wonderful alongside pan fried flathead with caper and parsley butter.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2035. A beautifully structured Premier Cru that should develop greater richness and complexity over the next decade.