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Chablis 1er Cru Forêts 2020 Louis Michel
The Chablis Premier Cru Forêts 2020 from Domaine Louis Michel is a benchmark expression of classic Chablis terroir. Made from 100% Chardonnay, the grapes come from two historic parcels located on the Left Bank of the Serein River, rooted in poor, stony Kimmeridgian soils composed of hard limestone within a clay matrix, with a shallow layer of fossilized shells close to the surface. Steep slopes and a South–South-East exposure ensure excellent drainage and a pronounced mineral identity.
The vines, planted between 1969 and 1978, are farmed with great care. In the cellar, Louis Michel follows a philosophy of minimal intervention: long, spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts, natural malolactic fermentation, and an extended aging of 18–20 months exclusively in stainless steel tanks, avoiding oak to preserve the purity and transparency of the terroir. The wine undergoes slow cold stabilization, light bentonite fining if necessary, and a single gentle filtration at bottling.
On the nose, Forêts 2020 reveals woodland and fern aromas, followed by ripe fruit, cocoa, black pepper, and subtle spice notes. The palate is tense, energetic, and deeply mineral, with a chalky texture and the hallmark flinty gunflint character, evolving toward licorice nuances on the finish. A Premier Cru of remarkable precision, freshness, and depth, with an aging potential of 5 to 15 years, perfect alongside shellfish, refined fish dishes, or truffle-based cuisine.
