2023 Petit Chablis
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Tasting notes
From a parcel just above Grand Cru Les Clos, this is a stunning Petit Chablis that punches well above its weight. It’s steely bright and mineral, with a savoury edge alongside the citrus and crisp apple fruit behind. Seriously long and impressive Petit Chablis.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin, Vinous
Allen Meadows, Burghound
More reviews and scores
Samuel Billaud’s 2023 Petit Chablis derives from 40-year-old vines in Sur les Clos, based on Portlandian limestone. It wafts from the glass with aromas of lemon zest, oyster shell, acacia and a hint of youthful reduction. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and taut and more mineral-driven than fruity, a considerable performance for the appellation.
Pale and lemony. A fine stony freshness with good depth for a Petit Chablis and attractive creamy texture. Fresh and yet gentle and surprisingly long. (JH)
Lively and pure, the Petit Chablis from Samuel Billaud is reminiscent of more focused wines from Kimmeridgian soils. The aromas range from gooseberry to lemon peel and white peaches; there is a distinct flinty mineral note. The texture is not heavy, but the finish has surprising persistence. The grapes are from a parcel of 0.60ha planted by his father in 1976 on the Portlandian plateau at the top of the grand cru slope of Sur Les Clos.
About the producer
Samuel Billaud started making wine under his own name in 2009, but he is one of the most experienced producers in Chablis, having made wine in the region since 1985.