Viniou Reviews
Domaine William Fèvre’s Chablis Premier Cru "Montée de Tonnerre" 2022 is a reference amongst Chablis lovers and a benchmark for the purity and complexity that the region’s Premier Crus can offer. Made entirely from Chardonnay, this cuvée expresses the unique character of the Montée de Tonnerre vineyard, situated on the right bank of the Serein river. Here, the Kimmeridgian limestone soils imbue the wine with characteristic minerality and finesse while the vintage, 2022, stands out for its balance of freshness and ripe fruit thanks to a season marked by both generous sunshine and needed rainfall. With careful vinification under the stewardship of William Fèvre, part of the wine is aged in stainless steel to preserve its tension and vibrancy, while a portion matures in seasoned oak, adding texture and a subtle hint of spice without overshadowing the purity of the fruit.
The Chablisien subregion of Burgundy enjoys a cool continental climate, with marked swings between day and night temperatures. This helps to preserve acidity and promotes a slow, complex ripening of the Chardonnay berries. The region’s unique ‘terroir’ – notably the ancient Kimmeridgian marl with fossilised oyster shells – imparts the famous flinty, saline character that distinguishes true Chablis from other white Burgundies. Chablis has a storied history dating back to Roman times and flourished during the Middle Ages; today, its premier cru vineyards continue to set the standard for dry, mineral-driven white wines in France and beyond.
For food pairings, this Montée de Tonnerre’s intense minerality and citrus precision make it a superb partner to oysters, langoustines, and other shellfish, whose natural brininess is echoed by the wine’s saline notes. White fish, crudo, and tartare are ideal matches as well. For regional classics, try it with gougères (Burgundian cheese puffs) or a delicate rabbit with mustard sauce, which will subtly echo the wine’s bright acidity and understated oak.
Serve this wine chilled, ideally at 10-12°C, in a large enough glass to allow it to open fully. While delicious young for its energy and precision, it will reward some cellaring, gaining further complexity over the coming five to seven years. Decant if drinking within the first two years to reveal even more aromatics.
