Domaine Roland Lavantureux Chablis 'Vau de Vey' Premier Cru 2023

Chablis Premier Cru Vau de Vey 2023 | Burgundy – Temple Wines

⭐ Jasper Morris (Inside Burgundy)
5 stars
91–94 points
Tasted: July 2024
Drinking window: 2027–2034

“The steep slope and altitude have successfully kept this very fresh in 2023. There is certainly a huge amount on the nose. The 2023 Vau de Vey still has the typical grass of this vineyard but now with a fine stony thread too. A little lemongrass behind. This is a beautiful example of a 1er Cru which is coming into its own. Impeccable balance and length.”

Description

Chablis Premier Cru Vau de Vey 2023 is one of the most vertical and mineral expressions from Domaine Roland Lavantureux. This is a climat of extreme character, defined by its steep slopes, high altitude, and east-facing exposure, making it one of the coldest and most demanding terroirs in the Chablisien.

The Lavantureux family’s connection to Vau de Vey dates back to the 1970s, but only in 2016 did David and Arnaud manage to acquire their own parcel in this enclosed valley, in one of the steepest sections (with gradients exceeding 45%), on pure limestone soils, with vines literally planted into the rock. This context gives the wine singular mineral intensity, extreme tension, and a deeply Chablisienne identity.

A Premier Cru of great precision, energy, and length, built to evolve slowly and reveal its full complexity over time.

Region

Burgundy – Chablis Premier Cru

Vineyards

Climat: Vau de Vey
Location: Enclosed valley, east-facing
Slope: Extremely steep parcel (over 45% at its central point)
Total area: 0.95 ha
Vines planted: 1982
Pruning: Double Guyot

Soils

Pure limestone
Vines planted directly into the rock

Grape Variety

100% Chardonnay

Vinification and Aging

Alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, with strict temperature control, aiming for maximum finesse and aromatic precision.

Total aging: 12 to 15 months

• 50% in stainless steel, to preserve freshness, tension, and purity

• 50% in barrels (from new to five wines), to add complexity and depth

The final blend results from a balance between verticality, structure, and mineral expression.
Bottled at the domaine.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, it shows great aromatic intensity, with notes of citrus, fresh grass, nuances of wet stone, and a subtle hint of lemongrass.
On the palate, it is vertical, taut, and profoundly mineral, with precise structure and vibrant energy. The finish is long, saline, and incisive, leaving a striking impression of purity and freshness. A cutting, razor-sharp Chardonnay of great class and longevity.

Aging Potential

Best from around 3 years after harvest
Full expression between 2027 and 2034

Pairings

Perfect with oysters, raw or lightly cooked shellfish, firm-fleshed fish, Japanese cuisine, or dishes of great precision and aromatic purity.