PRODUCER: Domaine Schaller
REGION: Chablis, Burgundy, France
WINEMAKERS: Camille Schaller
WINERY HISTORY
Domaine Camille & Laurent Schaller is a family estate based in Préhy, in the heart of Chablis. Established by Laurent's parents, originally cereal farmers from Alsace and Belgium, in 1955, they elected to shift their focus from cereal production to vines in the late-1970s. Laurent and his son Camille cultivate three grape varieties: Chardonnay, Aligoté and Pinot Noir. Their parcels are located in the villages of Préhy, Courgis, Chablis, Poilly sur Serein, Chichée (Premier Cru Vaucoupin) and Beine (Premier Cru Vau de Vey). After growing grapes for the local La Chablisienne cooperative for years, the two decided to start producing their own bottlings in 2014.
VITICULTURE & WINEMAKING
Planted in the clay and limestone soils which define Chablis, their 14ha are sustainably farmed and in organic conversion, hand harvested to preserve the delicate flavours of the fruit.
Once picked, the grapes are gravity loaded into a pneumonic press where they undergo gentle crushing to minimize risk of oxidation. After settling for twelve to twenty-four hours, alcoholic and malolactic fermentation are carried out in tank. Aged sur lies, the wines typically see only stainless steel, though the Chablis Vieilles Vignes sees limited time in neutral French oak. This wine is characterised by finesse, purity, and crackling notes of minerality, possessing the typical notes of Chablis but with a noticeable sophistication. Beautiful aromas of citrus and ripe green fruits abound, with an exhilarating acidity balancing the richer, fuller notes. The Petit Chablis reveals attractive aromas of lemon rind and white flowers, with delightful citrus fruit on the palate. The 1er Cru bottlings display an extra depth, white fruit prominent in these bottlings off decades old vines.
Having only recently expanded to produce Pinot Noir, the red is already reminiscent of one created by a seasoned master. Easy-going and quaffable, it is a veritable bomb of delicious red fruit and liquorice balanced by silky smooth tannins. Pairing beautiful with a variety of dishes such as a pork roast, this wine is certain to satisfy even the pickiest Burgundy enthusiasts.
