Chablis

Chablis is the northernmost wine growing region in Burgundy. It's actually closer to Champagne than much of the rest of Burgundy, because it is separated by the Morvan hills. Chablis produces dry white wines made from Chardonnay, and is situated on ancient Jurassic soils that give its wines minerally and flinty accents. In fact, some of the best vineyard sites have a unique soil type known as Kimmeridgean, a distinctive mix of limestone, clay and fossilized oyster shells. The soil in combination with the cooler climate gives Chablis its distinctive flavor profile as well as a lovely pale gold-green color. As with the rest of Burgundy, Chablis is classified by a strict hierarchy. The vast majority of wines on the market bear the Chablis regional label – they are often excellent wines that are attractively priced. Premier Crus and Grand Crus are from top vineyard sites, and while more expensive, they also age beautifully. Fresh and vibrant, Chablis has transporting aromas of green apples, lemon zest, spring flowers, and characteristic flint and chalk notes. Chablis can be enjoyed year-round, but it is a particularly excellent wine to serve in the springtime and early summer, as Chablis loves oysters, mussels, sushi, green salads, asparagus, peas and just about anything with goat cheese.