2022 Chablis, Mont de Milieu, 1er Cru, Samuel Billaud, Burgundy

As one would expect in a vintage like 2022, there is a suggestion of the exotic lurking in the background of the ripe nose of white-fleshed fruit, wet stone and shellfish scents. The rich, full-bodied and overtly powerful medium weight plus flavors coat the palate with sappy dry extract while delivering fine length on the balanced finale. This does however need to develop more depth though that should reasonably occur if allowed at least a few years of bottle aging. Worth checking out.

From vines planted in 1971 and 1976. The same pale clear colour. The nose is chiselled and backward. With a minute or two in the glass, the opulence starts to show. There is an awful lot of wine in this glass but it remains really tightly wound. Magical structure, and exceptional length. This is going to make a great Montée de Tonnerre with lasting abilities. Fresh white pears, nothing too rich nor sunny. The finish just will not stop! Yet the wine is both refreshing and complex at the same time.