La Chablisienne : Chablis 1er cru "Fourchaume" 2012

The 2012 Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume comes from 15 hectares of vine and sees 12 months in stainless steel and wooden barrels. It has a reserved nose that opens with aeration to reveal pretty red apple, honeysuckle and jasmine scents that are well-defined. The palate is well-balanced with crisp acidity, decent tension and a simple, fresh pear and green apple finish that offers a spicy aftertaste. Fine. Drink now–2018. La Chablisienne is one of Chablis’ most high-profile cooperatives and a great success story. Founded back in 1923 and still going strong, it is said that they oversee approximately one-quarter of the region’s production, around 300 individual growers. Therefore, just like Georges Duboeuf in Beaujolais or Louis Jadot in the Côte d’Or, it is important that they maintain standards irrespective of high volumes, since their size ensures that they have an ambassadorial role for Chablis, for ordinary punters perhaps seeking to broaden their horizons. In this respect, the wines should not be looked down upon given the showing here. While none of them reached the heady heights of Chablis’ most revered artisans, there was certainly a consistency across the range that, when coupled with the volume produced, deserves to be applauded. Importers: Ruby Wines (MA), Opici Wines (NY), Grape Expectations (CA), Brescome Barton (CT)