Chablis, Vaillons, 1er Cru, 2023
There's a touch more clay in the soil at Vaillons (compared to Sechet) and this explains the more expressive, freshly cut peach, honeysuckle and white flower aromas. On the palate this is noticeably more ample and with a steadying touch of noble bitterness on the finish. A bit more sun kissed than Sechet but still cool in feel. A charmer.
critic reviews
The 2023 Chablis Vaillons 1er Cru was the cuvée that did not quite shine when I tasted it from barrel 12 months earlier. Now in bottle, this still just needs a little more vivacity and tension on the nose. It's outflanked by the Séchets at the moment. The palate is linear, strict and very well balanced with fine mineralité. Overall, this just lacks the bandwidth and complexity of a great Vincent Dauvissat.
Informed by deeper soil than Sechet, the 2023 Chablis 1er Cru Vaillons opens from the glass with aromas of honeysuckle, white peach, tangerine and smoke. Extroverted, full-bodied and textural, with a chalky grip and saline finish, Vaillons is more open-knit than its neighbor Sechet. However, this youthful charm can be deceitful, as, based on my experience enjoying this cuvee 10 or even 15 years after harvest, it always richly rewards patience.