2009 Chablis

The 2009 Chablis is an attractive entry-level offering laced with generous fruit. It possesses good balance and a round, generous finish. Hints of peaches and flowers add further nuances on the close. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2017. (Not yet released) Bernard Raveneau provides unusual perspective with regards to the 2010s. While most of his colleagues talk about a vintage with high acidity, Raveneau points out that the 2010s are actually low in acidity relative to the wines Chablis produced in the 1970s and 1980s. Yields in 2010 were 20% lower than in 2009. The vineyards on the right bank were affected by the irregular flowering, while the vineyards on the left bank were hit by hail in July. August was warm until the end of the month, when rain became a bit of an issue. Raveneau began harvesting the 2010s on September 22, while the 2009s were brought in beginning on September 14. The 2009s were bottled two weeks before my visit. These are two thrilling collections from one of the village’s uncontested superstars. Importer: Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant, Berkeley, CA; tel. (510) 524-1524

Pale green-yellow color. Honeyed ripeness on the nose, along with a whiff of menthol. Sweet, ripe and fat for village wine, with a flavor of crystallized lemon. A bit high-toned and warm compared to the 2010, with softer acidity.

Stone fruits and minerals on the nose. Juicy and firm-edged, with mineral and menthol flavors joined by a more exotic whiff of banana. Fat and expressive village wine with a hint of warmth on the back.