2018 Chablis Fourchaume
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Tasting notes
Produced in tiny quantities (1,200 bottles in total in 2018), the Fourchaume is one of the most sought after of all Chablis Premier Crus. Located in the north of the region, Fourchaume is an extension of the hillsides that make up the Grand Crus. With an intrinsic richness from this warmer site, in Samuel Billaud's expert hands, they also retain an immense tension, mineral vibrancy and finesse. The 2018 Fourchaume has a fantastic intensity and balance with very pure grapefruit, mandarin, lemon citrus and delicate white flower notes. But the real magic of the wine is in its texture, its elegant mouth feel and balance. The wine is impressively broad, filling the palate whilst at the same time remaining ethereally Chablis-light, leaving the palate salivating with a long mineralic finish.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
William Kelley, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Chablis 1er Cru Les Fourchaumes has turned out beautifully, mingling aromas of Meyer lemon and crisp green orchard fruit with hints of beeswax and citrus blossom. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and enveloping, it's textural and incisive, with tangy acids and a fleshy core of fruit.
The 2018 Chablis Fourchaume 1er Cru is delicate and understated, which will likely make it easy to drink pretty much upon release. Soft contours and gentle, layered personality add to a real feeling of immediacy. It will be interesting to see how the 2018 ultimately shows from bottle. Today, it is very much a Chablis of reserve.
About the producer
Samuel Billaud started making wine under his own name in 2009, but he is one of the most experienced producers in Chablis, having made wine in the region since 1985.