(Apr. 11, 2012) — The wines of Chablis are truly mirrors of their terroir. They stand before us, shy chardonnay grapes, their pure flavours uncorrupted by the vanilla notes of excess new oak. The French wine writers sometimes refer to these crisp wines as nervous with fine acidity. My favourite is the adjective vivacité, which sums it up nicely. Another favourite phrase of the French (translated) is “gunflint”. Chablis is full of life, minerality and ripe stone fruits. However Grand Cru Chablis ages well and can then show almost nutty tones.

We have carefully purchased a wonderful cross section of this appellation, including the best vineyards Clos & Vaudésir, as well as Blanchots and Valmur, from top producers Domaine des Malandes & L Moreau (including clos des Hospices).  The tasting includes a “mini vertical” of Moreau’s Valmur with 2002, 2003, 2004.  Some say Grand Cru Chablis is more typical of great Cotes de Beaune than mere “Chablis” (except it is substantially cheaper!).

Our special guest speaker will be Jay Johnston – chardonnay-obsessed, winemaker extraordinaire. He has been making wine at the terroir-focused Hidden Bench for the last few years. Jay has recently taken up the reins at Keint-he winery in the Chablisienne-like limestone rich soils of Hillier, Prince Edward County.
The wines we will be pouring are: from L Moreau – Valmur, 2002, 2003, 2004; Vaudésir 2004, Blanchots 2005, Clos des Hospices 2004; and from dom des Malandes – Vaudésir 2004, Les Clos 2004.

Let us tickle your palate this spring with a flight of finest Chablis.

As always with our tastings, this event will be strictly non-smoking, and we request your cooperation in not wearing any scented after-shave or perfume.

Cancellations accepted up to April 6, 2012. See the event form for cancellation contact details. No reservations by phone, please. No confirmations will be issued — you will be contacted only if we are sold out. First come basis. Non-members may attend at guest rates, but preference will be given to members.

Download the event form if you wish to mail in your reservation cheque.