2022 Nathalie et Gilles Fevre Chablis
With the 2019 vintage, I began selling Nathalie et Gilles Fevre wines and have been personally sold on them ever since. You may recall, I made a small offer this summer of the village chablis that was a 1-day sell out and I think very much lives up to the Burghound billing: “One to look for as this is very good for its level” Â
The importer came by last week grinning ear to ear. Not only did he have some new Burgundy estates to show me, he had just received his second shipment from Nathalie et Gilles Fevre, which included the Preuses and Vaulorent. When I stuck my nose in the glass of Preuses, there was no doubt we were in for something special (I think my rep was tasting it for the first time with me). The citrus infused, sea breeze essence left no doubt we could only be in Chablis.
On the palate the flavors were so pure and precise that the wine almost felt weightless. When I swallowed and looked up from the glass, momentarily, I didn’t have words. The flavors just kept coming and coming in what can only be described as a true Grand Cru experience. When I finally composed myself, I said, this is one of the finest Chablis I have had this vintage and would argue one of the best white wines I’ve had all year. Utterly fantastic!
My next question was how much can I buy?... I’ll take it ALL! The answer wasn’t great but after a little back and forth I pried six -6pks out of the 10 he’d been allocated. I got 6 of the Vaulorent as well.
Nathalie et Gilles Fevre could be considered the “other” Fevre, as the wines are not as well known as Uncle Bill (William Fevre). The collective Fevre family history can be traced back to 1745, as they have enjoyed a long and rich history in the region. The family was wholeheartedly part of the cooperative, La Chablisienne, and provided 100% of their harvest for vinification from 1923-2003. It was in 2003 that Nathalie & Gilles decided to take back some of their family land and formed their own Domaine.
Nathalie and husband Gilles met while studying at National d'Ĺ“nologue where both earned diplomas in enology and developed a similar philosophy to respect the land. They have always had an organic approach to farming but 2022 is the first vintage to be recognized as certified organic.
When I tell you these are serious Chablis and worth your attention - I’m not kidding! Don’t blink as these are going to move quickly and come with my highest recommendation!
There is a bit more classic Chablis typicity to the aromas of citrus, iodine and shellfish that are complemented by the slightly bigger and punchier medium-bodied flavors that possess even better density while delivering fine length on the agreeably dry, firm and lingering finish. One to look for as this is very good for its level.
- Burghound, 89 Top Value
2022 Nathalie et Gilles Chablis 1er Vaulorent
The 2022 Chablis Vaulorent ler Cru has a bright bouquet with dewy green apple, pear, and underlying wet limestone scents coming through with aeration. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity, impressive tension and ample concentration that all lead to a very precise and complex finish. What an impressive and delicious wine, one that will be fascinating to mature in bottle. Tasted blind at the BIVB tasting in Chablis. Â
- Vinous Media, 93
2022 Nathalie et Gilles Chablis Grand Cru Preuses
The 2022 Chablis Les Preuses Grand Cru takes time to open in the glass. There is a pating of new oak that will need to be subsumed, but underneath, there lies some intriguing tropical-tinged fruit and hints of white peach and nectarine, becoming spicier with aeration. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry with impressive depth, and the acidity here is beautifully judged. One of the more elegant Les Preuses, I admire its purity and length. There's some very good winemaking behind this Grand Cru. Tasted blind at the BIVB tasting in Chablis.Â
- Vinous Media, 95
