La Chablisienne’s 2019 Montée de Tonnerre Premier Cru is an exceptional expression of Chablis, considered by many connoisseurs as one of the greatest Premier Cru vineyards within the region. The wine is crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, the signature grape of Chablis, picked from vines rooted in the famed Kimmeridgian limestone soils that impart distinct minerality and finesse. The 2019 vintage benefited from a warm, sunny season with restrained yields, resulting in rich fruit concentration and notable acidity. Vinification by La Chablisienne is meticulous: after gentle pressing, the must is fermented and matured partly in stainless steel and partly in older oak casks, striking a harmonious balance between freshness, structure, and subtle complexity.
Chablis itself is a unique subregion of Burgundy, situated in the northernmost sector of the region, closer to Champagne than the Côte d’Or. Its climate is cool and continental, marked by cold winters and short, often variable summers—ideal for preserving the natural acidity of Chardonnay. The landscape is dominated by Jurassic limestone and abundant fossilised seashells, which translate directly into the wine’s hallmark saline minerality and pure citrus profile. Chablis has a storied history stretching back to Roman times, but its modern prestige was firmly established by the Cistercian monks and later by producers like La Chablisienne, who have championed these singular terroirs.
This wine’s crisp profile and elegant minerality make it a superb partner for an array of food pairings. Classic matches include delicate seafood—think oysters, scallops, or a plate of poached langoustines—as well as simply grilled white fish with lemon and herbs. The freshness of the 2019 Montée de Tonnerre also complements regional dishes like jambon persillé or goat’s cheese (Crottin de Chavignol), and can even elevate sushi or sashimi thanks to its precision and drive.
To fully enjoy its aromatic nuances and textural depth, serve this wine well-chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10-12°C. A little aeration in the glass will allow its complex layers of citrus, white flowers, and wet stone to unfurl beautifully. While already expressive now, this Premier Cru can age gracefully for several more years, developing even greater complexity and intensity.
