2022 Domaine William Fèvre Chablis Premier Cru Montmains

Domaine William Fèvre and its location within Chablis

Domaine William Fèvre has been one of the most respected Chablis producers for decades. The estate is located around the village of the same name in the northern part of Burgundy. The region is characterized by a cool climate with sunny days, cool nights, and soil composed of Kimmeridgian limestone and clay. This combination produces tension, freshness, and a distinctive minerality that makes the wines so beloved by both enthusiasts and professionals.

The estate covers approximately 78 hectares, divided between Chablis, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru plots. Under the leadership of Didier Séguier, the estate operates with a clear vision focused on precision, terroir, and minimal intervention. The winemaking process has been organic for many years. The 2022 vintage is even considered the penultimate step in official organic certification, although in practice, the estate has been working entirely according to organic principles for over sixteen years. Fèvre's style is recognizable by its depth, pure minerality, and balanced structure.

Recent developments underscore the estate's focus on the future. The acquisition by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) is widely seen as a reinforcement of the course Fèvre has been pursuing for years. Both in the cellar and in the vineyards, the focus remains on precision and quality.

The Premier Cru Montmains and the unique characteristics of the terroir

Montmains is one of Chablis's most famous Premier Cru vineyards. The slopes, located in the southern part of the appellation, consist of calcareous clay, forcing the roots to penetrate deeply. The vineyard is spread across three sub-lieux dits, with the terroir offering variations in clay depth, structure, and drainage. The common denominator is a pronounced minerality that gives Montmains a character that is both taut and inviting.

The location allows for a long growing season, allowing the Chardonnay to ripen optimally without losing its freshness. This results in wines with a salty undertone, ripe fruit, and precise acidity. Montmains is often described by experts as being slightly gentler in its youth than some other Premier Cru parcels, yet with sufficient structure to develop beautifully.

Harvest, vinification and maturation of the 2022 Montmains

The 2022 vintage produced healthy and ripe grapes with an excellent balance of fruit and acidity. The growing season featured warm months combined with timely rain. This allowed the Chardonnay to fully develop without sacrificing any of its vibrancy. The harvest proceeded smoothly, with careful selection of the best fruit.

Vinification at Domaine William Fèvre focuses on freshness and depth. The grapes are gently pressed and fermented in a combination of stainless steel and reclaimed oak barrels. The barrels are neutral, eliminating woody aromas while still adding texture and complexity. Maturation lasts approximately ten to fifteen months, with some remaining on the lees for added roundness.

The 2022 Montmains is described as satiny and layered, with youthful tension and a somewhat compact structure. The wine has a clear mineral line and, according to experts, shows remarkable precision for this warm vintage. The profile is energetic and taut, indicating that this Montmains will age well.

Color, aroma and taste of the 2022 Montmains

In the glass, the wine displays a bright, light yellow color with a subtly glossy rim. The nose opens with green apple, pear, white flowers, and a hint of honey. The minerality is immediately present, giving the wine a cool, salty note.

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a satiny texture and layered flavors. The minerality is supported by youthful fruit. The wine is still somewhat closed, yet firm and balanced, suggesting excellent aging potential well into 2040. The finish combines citrus, pear, and a crisp, chalky note that lingers.

According to experts, this vintage displays precisely the tension and freshness not readily found in all 2022 Chablis. The combination of purity, depth, and vibrant acidity makes it a wine that will offer great pleasure both now and in the years to come.

Would you like to order Domaine William Fèvre wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.
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Wine and food pairings

• Steamed cod with lemon and samphire. The briny notes and the freshness of the wine enhance the delicate flavors of the cod.
• Scallops with cauliflower cream. The creamy texture complements the satiny mouthfeel and subtle minerality.
• Veal tenderloin with sage and a light cream sauce. The wine balances the dish and emphasizes the delicate spiciness.
• Grilled shrimp with garlic and parsley. The fresh fruit and tension complement the slightly sweet shrimp perfectly.
• Risotto with lemon, asparagus, and Parmesan. The acidity adds freshness, while the wine's structure supports the creamy risotto.
• Lobster with tarragon and a touch of butter. The wine brings purity, tension, and elegance to this rich dish.