Product Description:
Grand Cru Chablis that marries richness with precision. From the steep south-eastern slopes of Bougros, arguably the most dramatic of Chablis’ Grand Cru vineyards, this 2023 release from Domaine Bernard Defaix balances plush, textural weight with the classical mineral drive of top-slope fruit. The site, positioned just below Preuses, is known for producing wines of generosity, while still carrying the cut of limestone that defines Chablis.

Fermented and matured in older oak with regular bâtonnage, then bottled after 18 months, the wine shows a supple concentration and breadth, tempered by freshness. Jasper Morris likens Bougros to being “smothered in a great big woolly jumper—big, fat, soft and round”, yet in the hands of Defaix, this richness is shaped into something fine-boned, vibrant, and long-lived.

Tasting Notes
NOSE
– Subtle depth
Floral notes of honeysuckle alongside citrus oil, stone fruit and a gentle nuttiness.

PALATE
– Plush and mineral
Rounded and textural, with soft concentration layered against classical Chablis minerality and a touch of spice.

FINISH
– Long and spiced
Supple length with a lingering note of hazelnut and a faintly bitter, savoury twist.

Reviews & Accolades
“A discrete nose today. Hmm – here is volume but also a more direct urge from the flavours. Supple concentrations, melting rewardingly over the palate. Growing with a small burst to the finishing flavours. Longer in a spiced style from the élevage… For keeping at least 3–4 years…” — Bill Nanson, Burgundy Report

“There is no new oak here. In fact, all of the barrels are seven to eight years old. The nose extends sliced apples, cantaloupe, cinnamon toast and warm oatmeal. Flatteringly long and succulent, this will be approachable after five or six years but will certainly hold longer.” — Christy Canterbury MW, Tim Atkin Burgundy Report, 94 points

Finer Details:
Style – White Wine
Varietal – Chardonnay
Country – France
Region – Chablis
Vintage – 2023
Bottle Size – 750ml
ABV – 13%
Closure – Diam