2002 Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos, Vincent Dauvissat
Dry, White, Still
France
Ready 2007 – 2014 
This item is currently unavailable for purchase through Lay & Wheeler.
Our fine wine trading team may be able to source the wine for you. Please use our contact form to provide us with your details.
.
Region Details
For years Chablis suffered from being the most abused generic term used in the whole of the wine industry with many new world countries using the name as a general term for dry, crisp white wine. Today things are different, and in some ways this fabulous appellation has benefited from the abuses of the past.
Chablis is rightly recognised as one of the great homes of white wine and its vignerons are now fully aware that they are producers of something very special indeed. Styles vary but quality variations are not the same issue they once were. The key to understanding Chablis today is to search not only for its true, steely mineral structure but more importantly the style of vinification. Whether the wine goes through its élevage in barrel or stainless steel results in very different wines. Some producers are seeking almost Côte de Beaune-styled wines; rich and full, encouraging toasted barrel-matured characteristics in the finished wines. Others encourage a natural steeliness by actively avoiding any barrel contact, thereby expressing the strength of the soil and producing firm, driven wines, which are perfect for shellfish.
Chablis is so much more than a style of dry white wine and is now the region producing great quality at prices long forgotten in certain other parts of Burtgundy.
Vintage Notes
2002 - Chablis
What was a fine year for white burgundy in general turned out exceptional for Chablis. A frost-free spring (a rarity so far north) was followed by a perfect June, a cool summer but a magnificent September of long, sunny days with great luminosity. Grapes were gathered in ideal conditions with a fine match between sugar and acidity. The wines have the 'nervosity' and race so essential for their character and are blessed with a fine concentration. With such all-round qualities this is a vintage to enjoy in both youth and maturity.
Grape Variety
For long little known outside Burgundy, as a result of public acclaim Chardonnay has just about conquered the world. Whilst not always the most planted white variety, there can be few countries where it is not a feature - from California to China taking in Italy and even Israel on the way. Undoubtedly the main attraction is the magical association with the great white wines of Burgundy; but it is relatively easy to grow and its neutral flavours and soft acidity present no barrier to opportunity. Whether an inexpensive country wine or a hand-crafted high-ender, Chardonnay finds a ready audience of eager consumers. Inevitably its personality varies according to location, ranging from almost watery white and fragrant to near golden and pungent, with fruit notes in a spectrum from green apple (the Loire) to pineapple and oranges (Australia). Oak ageing is almost de-rigueur, and in the cheapest examples the flavours of oak are often simulated by the addition of wood chips or essence. White Burgundy is complex and thrilling and can live for many years if cellared correctly.
.
.
