Vinous - Neal Martin (93-95)

The 2022 Corton-Pougets Grand Cru has a tightly wound bouquet with dark plum, raspberry coulis, incense and light sous-bois scents. It takes quite a few swirls of the glass to get the aromas going. The palate is medium-bodied with a structured, assertive opening. The tannins are slightly chalky, lending this Corton-Pougets edginess/nerve. Fine mineralité towards the finish yet tightly wound and almost curmudgeonly in its nascent state, this Grand Cru will demand long-term agin

Crafted with scintillating precision, the elegant Louis Michel Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre 2022 is the epitome of classic French white. Produced in the renowned vineyards of Burgundy, its pedigree mirrors excellence and tradition associated with the Louis Michel family since 1850. The hand-harvested Chardonnay grapes proffer a wine of exquisite character, with tightly-woven minerality hinting at the kimmeridgian clay-limestone terroir.

The wine's deft vinification, free from oak to retain purity of fruit and terroir expression, creates a vibrant aromatic profile. Subtle notes of citrus fruit intermingle with hints of dried honey, creating a tantalising nose. A crisp acidity on the palate is balanced with a profound depth, culminating in a protracted finish that reveals the longevity of this splendid offering.

Indulge in the Louis Michel Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre 2022, a true gem of Chablis, encapsulating virginity and complexity of Burgundy's best Chardonnay.

Truly a testament to classic French viticulture, the Malandes Chablis 2022 is an elegantly balanced white wine. Born in the prestigious vineyards of Burgundy, it is crafted by Domaine des Malandes, a producer celebrated for instilling excellence and tradition in every bottle.

Justly expressing the rich Chablis terroir, it is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, hand-picked during the peak of maturity. The wine sees fermentation in stainless steel vats, a method contributing to its noted purity and freshness. With a scent reminiscent of green apple and Meyer lemon - the palate articulates an enchanting interlude of mineral, delicate citrus, and floral notes, resulting in a well-defined, crisp finish.

Aged to perfection, the Malandes Chablis 2022 illuminates a sophisticated palate and is a brilliant complement to seafood and mild, creamy cheeses. This outstanding wine stunningly encapsulates classic Chablis character, seamlessly blending depth, mineral intensity, and sublime fruit.

Wine Advocate (91)

Piuze's new 2022 Chablis La Butte "O" comes from the lieu-dit Butteaux but outside the confines of the premier cru. It's an attractive effort redolent of pear, toasted nuts, bee pollen, white flowers and youthful reduction. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, with racy acids and a long mineral finish, it's a fine addition to the range.

Wine Advocate (91)

Piuze's new 2022 Chablis La Butte "O" comes from the lieu-dit Butteaux but outside the confines of the premier cru. It's an attractive effort redolent of pear, toasted nuts, bee pollen, white flowers and youthful reduction. Medium to full-bodied, satiny and incisive, with racy acids and a long mineral finish, it's a fine addition to the range.

Decanter (95)

The delicious Corton Bressandes has long been a favourite in this cellar. It is produced from a large (0.80 hectare) parcel that Pacalet rents, planted with 80-year-old massale selection vines at very high density. The vines give a small yield but very concentrated fruit that Pacalet ferments gently as whole clusters to deliver this intense, powerful wine that retains surprising elegance and finesse for such a substantial wine. The ripe mulberry and plum fruit aromas are hedged with earth and savoury game notes; the texture is tannic and compact. This Bressandes should open in five to seven years and drink well for decades.

Vinous (93-95)

The 2022 Chablis Montée de Tonnerre 1er Cru comes from two parcels (one in Haut Chapelot near Raveneau and the other in Montée de Tonnerre lieu-dit). The strict nose has crushed stone scents, hints of damp moss and sea cave. Very fine delineation. The palate has a penetrating entry with another killer line of acidity. It is tensile and steely with serious weight towards the grippy finish. Very sustained, this is a brilliant Montée de Tonnerre.

Decanter (93)

Appealing already, warm and with a sunny disposition on the palate, there is plenty of driving acidity to balance. Billaud explains that the white clay gives more power. Plenty of tension here. Will age. Not at all overripe. A fine example of Montmains with the vines averaging 35 years old. No barrels.