Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2021 – Domaine de Oliveira Lecestre

In the celebrated winemaking landscape of Chablis, the 2021 Vieilles Vignes from Domaine de Oliveira Lecestre emerges as a testament to the time-honored traditions and meticulous craftsmanship that have long defined this storied region. Crafted from vines that have delved deep into the region’s distinctive Kimmeridgian soils, this wine is a tribute to the enduring legacy of Chablis and the unique expression of the Chardonnay grape. Domaine de Oliveira Lecestre, nestled within the heart of this revered winemaking region, has harnessed the full potential of its old vines to produce a vintage that resonates with depth, purity, and the unmistakable minerality of Chablis.

The 2021 vintage in Chablis was a year that tested the resilience of the vines and the skill of the viticulturists. Characterized by a climatic ballet of fluctuating temperatures and unexpected challenges, it demanded vigilance and precision in the vineyard to safeguard the quality of the harvest. The Vieilles Vignes, with their deep roots and the natural resilience afforded by their age, thrived in these conditions, yielding grapes of exceptional concentration and aromatic complexity. The domaine’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention in the vineyard ensured that the intrinsic character of the terroir and the varietal was preserved and highlighted in the wine.

In crafting the Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2021, Domaine de Oliveira Lecestre employed techniques that underscored the wine’s natural elegance and terroir-driven expression. The carefully selected Chardonnay grapes, harvested at optimal maturity, underwent a gentle pressing and fermentation in stainless steel tanks to maintain the freshness and vibrancy of the fruit. The choice to eschew oak aging allowed the wine to retain its characteristic purity and focus, showcasing the nuanced interplay between fruit and minerality that is the hallmark of Chablis.

Upon tasting, the Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2021 unfurls with an exquisite clarity and precision. The wine presents a pale, luminous hue, inviting the senses with a bouquet of crisp green apple, lemon zest, and white flowers, interlaced with the subtle flinty notes that speak of the Kimmeridgian limestone. On the palate, the wine is a harmonious convergence of vibrant acidity and a rounded, textured mouthfeel. Layers of citrus and orchard fruit meld with a pronounced mineral streak, leading to a finish that is both long and refreshingly crisp. This balance of richness and acidity, fruit and mineral, is a testament to the old vines’ ability to convey the depth and complexity of the Chablis terroir.

The Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2021 is more than a wine; it is an exploration of the essence of Chablis, offering a glimpse into the region’s winemaking heritage through the lens of Domaine de Oliveira Lecestre’s venerable vines. Its sophistication and balance make it a versatile companion to a wide range of dishes, from delicate seafood to rich, creamy cheeses, underscoring its adaptability and enhancing the gastronomic experience. This vintage stands as a testament to the domaine’s passion for excellence and reverence for the land, inviting wine enthusiasts to discover the nuanced beauty of Chablis wines.

In essence, the Chablis Vieilles Vignes 2021 from Domaine de Oliveira Lecestre captures the spirit of Chablis winemaking at its most refined. It embodies the domaine’s dedication to crafting wines of distinction and character, offering a taste experience that is both uniquely reflective of its origins and compelling in its complexity. This wine is a celebration of the land, the grape, and the artistry of winemaking, standing as a vibrant homage to the tradition and innovation that define the contemporary wine scene, a vintage that eloquently speaks to the heart of wine lovers around the globe.