2021 Domaine Laroche Chablis Les Clos

Domaine Laroche dates from the mid-19th century. However its current prestige as one of Burgundy's premier producers of Chablis started in the late 1960s when Michel Laroche and his father Henri began adding vineyards to the family domain. The estate, based in Chablis, now includes nearly 250 acres. Grand Cru parcels include the Chablis vineyards of Blanchots, Bougros and Les Clos. The property includes a 9th-century monastery called Obediencerie, and some of the top cuvees are named for the building, which is used as the domain's business headquarters. There are Premier Cru parcels in Beauroy, Cote de Lechet, Fourchaume and elsewhere. There is also a Laroche negociant business.

Les Clos is a 61-acre Grand Cru vineyard in the appellation of Chablis, at the northwestern tip of Burgundy. With rocky soil, good drainage, and a southerly orientation, the vineyard is generally the most acclaimed of the Chablis Grand Crus. The principal landholders are Fevre with 10.38 acres; J. Moreau, with 9.01 acres; and C. Moreau, with 9 acres. Other notable producers with parcels in Les Clos are Francois Raveneau, Louis Pinson, Joseph Drouhin and Rene Dauvissat. Like all the Chablis vineyards, it is planted exclusively to Chardonnay.

This white variety originated in Burgundy, but is now grown around the world. Its flexibility to thrive in many regions translates to wide flavor profile in the market. Chardonnay is commonly used in making Champagne and sparkling wines.