2010 Chablis Blanchots

The 2010 Chablis Les Blanchots possesses tons of intensity in its precise, mineral-drenched fruit. The aromas and flavors are very much on the bright, citrus end of the spectrum, while floral notes contribute an element of brightness. In 2010, the Blanchots is gorgeous and beautifully balanced from start to finish. Anticipated maturity: 2013. Domaine Laroche is back in the US market after an absence of several years. The house style is marked by a search for considerable textural richness, which makes these some of the deeper, more opulent wines made in Chablis. Over the last few years, Domaine Laroche has begun to focus on organic viticulture and increased the use of indigenous yeasts, both of which are rare in Chablis. All of the Domaine Laroche wines are bottled under screwcap, also rare in Chablis, especially at this level. Winemaker Gregory Viennois told me the 2011 harvest started on September 12, towards the later side for the village. Viennois noted that potential alcohols and acidities were quite similar for both 2010 and 2011, which is unusual among the top domaines in Chablis. Importer: Wilson-Daniels, St. Helena, CA; tel. (707) 963-9661

Bright yellow. Complex aromas of lime and oatmeal, with a sexy leesy note. Silky, dense and energetic, with excellent intensity to the flavors of lime, grapefruit and minerals. There's little sign of the 30% oak component here. Very long on the rising, fine-grained finish, which exudes an enticing perfume of white flowers and white peach. Beautifully balanced grand cru. This wine was blended last June, then spent another six months in stainless steel tank before being bottled.

Very pale. Gosh. Not cheap! Now one can start to smell the fruit... Although it is trapped inside a very severe framework. All is here but this very distinctive winemaking style requires immense patience. (JR)