The Domaine Bernard Defaix is located in the heart of the Chablis vineyards in the village of Milly. The fourth generation from a family of vignerons, Bernard Defaix started with just 2 hectares in 1959. Over the years he has carefully and successfully expanded to the present 25 hectares. His vineyards cover 11 ha of Premier Cru, 12 ha of Chablis, and 2 ha of Petit Chablis. His two sons, Sylvain and Didier completed their studies in viticulture and oenology in 1994 and are now in partnership with their father thus ensuring, in time honoured tradition, continuity into the next generation. This combination of tradition and modern techniques produces beautiful Chablis with the true 'goût de terroir'.
This is without doubt one of the jewels of Chablis with historical links dating back to 1128. The estate was bought in 1968 by the Bichot family and up until 2003, was kept under the guardianship of Gerard Vullien who has worked on the estate for 30 years, ably assisted by Guenolé Bretedeau, the proud beneficiary of his great knowledge and expertise. Gerard has now retired, but Guenolé is carrying on the tradition. Without exception the wines are beautifully clean, long and above all typical Chablis.
DOMAINE LONG-DEPAQUIT
Chablis 2004 (12.5%) As it should be! Full, flinty and crisp yet supported by good strength of fruit. Classic 'goût de terroir'. Halves (24/37.5cl)
Chablis Premier Cru 'Les Vaillons' 2002 (13%) One of the most popular 1er Crus, this wine from the left bank of Le Serein has a somewhat softer style and structure. Halves (24/37.5cl)
Chablis Premier Cru 'Les Vaucopins' 2001 (13%) From the right bank, the same side as the Grands Crus, this lesser known vineyard on the steepest of slopes produces a most impressive concentrated wine, the equal of many Grand Crus. * 90/100 Gault Millau * Halves (24/37.5cl)
Grand Cru 'Les Blanchots' 2000 and 2001 (13%) * Four stars - Highly Recommended, Decanter *
Grand Cru 'Les Vaudesirs' 2000 and 2001 (13%) * Four stars - Highly recommended, Decanter *
Grand Cru 'Les Preuses' 2000 and 2001 (13%) * Four stars - Highly recommended, Decanter *
Grand Cru 'Bougros' 2000 and 2001 (13%) * Four stars - Highly recommended, Decanter *
Grand Cru 'Les Clos' 2000 and 2001 (13%) The particular mineral flavours of Les Clos are softened and rounded by partial oak-ageing of the cuvée, usually about half.
DOMAINE DE LA MOUTONNE
A vineyard of 2.35 hectares planted by the Cistercians and allowed to be called a separate Grand Cru because of its outstanding qualities and natural unity. La Moutonne encompasses parcels from two separate Grand Cru vineyards; 'Vaudesirs' and 'Preuses'. The wine is big, rich, complex and everything one seeks in great Chablis. Enjoyable now, it has great ageing potential up to 15 years.
**LIMITED AVAILABILITY**
Grand Cru Moutonne 2002 (13%) MONOPOLE Magnums (6/150cl) 2002
To purchase any of the above Chablis please visit our e-commerce site.
Alternatively, if you require any further information on our range of Chablis or have a trade enquiry, please contact Harrison Vintners on 020 8579 5001 or e-mail enquiries@harrisonvintners.co.uk
