2022 Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis Vieilles Vignes

The 2022 Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis Vieilles Vignes is a classic, old-vine expression of Chablis that combines tension, depth and real terroir character. Sourced from mature Chardonnay vines rooted in the region’s famed Kimmeridgian limestone, this is Chablis with both immediate charm and serious structure. For lovers of mineral-driven white Burgundy, it offers an authentic, artisanal alternative to more polished, modern styles.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2022 Vieilles Vignes shows a pale lemon color with green highlights, signaling youth and freshness. The nose is precise and complex, opening with citrus zest, green apple and pear, then layering in white flowers, crushed shell, wet stone and a subtle hint of fennel or anise. As it takes air, more texture-driven notes emerge – a touch of brioche and saline sea spray. On the palate, this Chablis is bright and linear yet surprisingly ample thanks to the old vines. Lively acidity frames flavors of lemon, lime, orchard fruits and a fine, chalky minerality that runs through the wine from start to finish. There is a gently creamy, leesy texture that softens the edges without masking the freshness. The finish is long, saline and mouthwatering, with a lingering impression of citrus peel and stone. While already enjoyable in its youth, the structure and concentration suggest very good aging potential over 6–10 years, gaining more nuance, honeyed and nutty notes with time in bottle.

Production
Daniel-Etienne Defaix farms old Chardonnay vines on classic Chablis slopes rich in Kimmeridgian limestone and fossilized seashells, which give the wine its distinctive mineral edge. The estate works with sustainable, low-intervention methods in the vineyard, encouraging deep root systems and low yields for greater concentration. Grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness, carefully sorted, and gently pressed. Fermentation typically takes place with native yeasts in stainless steel to preserve purity and terroir expression, followed by extended aging on fine lees to build texture and complexity without the use of new oak. This long, patient élevage is a hallmark of Defaix and gives the wine its combination of tension and depth.

Food & Serving
This Chablis is a natural partner for the sea: think oysters, mussels, scallops, crab, shrimp and simply prepared white fish, whether grilled, poached or served crudo. It also pairs beautifully with sushi and sashimi, goat cheese, poultry in light cream or citrus sauces, and vegetable dishes featuring asparagus, fennel or leeks. Serve well-chilled but not icy, ideally around 10–12°C (50–54°F), to allow the aromatics and texture to unfold. A brief decant of 20–30 minutes, or simply giving the wine some time in the glass, can help open up the nose and soften the youthful edge of the acidity, especially in the first few years after release.

Producer
Daniel-Etienne Defaix is a traditionalist in Chablis and one of the region’s most distinctive voices, known for his unwavering commitment to long lees aging and late release of his wines. The Defaix family has deep roots in Chablis, with a lineage of vignerons spanning several centuries, and today the domaine is recognized for its uncompromising focus on terroir expression rather than fashion. Located in the heart of Burgundy’s northern vineyards, Daniel-Etienne has earned a devoted following among sommeliers and collectors for crafting Chablis that age remarkably well, offering both classic minerality and an uncommon textural complexity that sets his wines apart from many of his peers.

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