2012 Domaine Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots $89.95

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2012 Domaine Laroche Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots $89.95

(Not Available For Retail Sales – Member Price Reflected on Receipt)

Winery Tasting Notes:  “The appellation, usually a slow-ripening one, benefited from an extraordinary end-of-summer: Blue skies, sunny and dry conditions, light winds and cold nights…all the elements required for a complete and perfect ripening of Chardonnay grapes. The condition of the grapes —  which were less abundant than in 2011 due to coulure and millerandage — was perfect, enabling the development of impeccable aromas. This vintage of cold maturation, which implies neither heat excess nor heaviness, has developed elegant, aromatic, well-balanced and generously mineral wines.

• Appearance: Clear, bright limpid yellow
• Aroma: Typical spring blossom aromas with a delicate mineral finish
• Taste: A silky mouthfeel supported by lively, racy acidity”

Wine Advocate Review (91 pts): “The 2012 Chablis Grand Cru Les Blanchots, which comes from 4.56 hectares of vine, has a more Burgundian bouquet furnished with almond and hazelnut infusing the slightly reduced nose. The palate is well-balanced with a gras-like entry, very good concentration here with good depth and intensity on the finish. Very fine. Drink 2015-2025.”  –Neal Martin

Wine Spectator Review (92 pts): “Rich, with vanilla and sweet spice notes accenting the peach, melon and stone flavors. Balanced, showing power and poise, finishing clean and bracing.”–Bruce Sanderson

Blend: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol Level: 13.5%
Cases Produced: 2,500
Winemaker Name: Gregory Vinennois
Maturity: Drink Now – 2020

Pairings:  Oysters/Raw, light white fish in white wine sauce, green veges/salads

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Staff Review:  DREW MOFFAT – You scored CV WC Members!  This is an absolute stellar, stellar wine that comes from one of the most prestigious Chablis houses in all of France.  This Chardonnay was fermented for 3 weeks on 60% stainless steel and 40% French Oak to then be aged for 14 months with the same combination of barreling.  If you are a fan of big/creamy/buttery style Chardonnay then this isn’t for you.  BUT…if you like clean & lean with great fragrant aromas and bright acidity…you are going to love this wine!

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