At a glance

Producer

François Raveneau

Region

Chablis, Burgundy, France

Grape variety

Chardonnay

Wine type

White

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$250

Tasting profile

Bright citrus, green apple, flinty minerality, subtle floral notes

Evolution: Will develop layered tertiary aromas of honey, toasted nuts, and richer stone fruit with age

At peak: Complex and textured with creamy palate, intense minerality, and balanced acidity

Structure

Acidity

High, crisp and fresh

Tannins

None (white wine)

Alcohol

13.0-13.5%

Aging potential

20+ years in ideal cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2052

Optimal window

2026 to 2055

Current status

Early drinking phase; fresh with considerable ageing potential

Current condition

Vibrant acidity and minerality, with developing complexity over next 5-10 years

Classic Chablis Grand Cru Les Clos from François Raveneau is renowned for its longevity due to high acidity, precise terroir expression, and meticulous winemaking. The 2020 vintage's freshness and structure support a long graceful evolution enabling peak complexity from around 10 years after bottling extending over the following decade.

Food pairing

Ideal with oysters, shellfish, sushi, white fish with butter or cream sauce, poultry, and mild cheeses

Serving

Serving temperature

11-13°C / 52-55°F

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

François Raveneau employs minimal intervention, limited use of chemicals, cover cropping, and careful canopy management to promote vine health and soil preservation. Use of natural yeasts and traditional winemaking minimizes additives.

The producer applies sustainable viticultural practices favoring environmental balance though lacks formal organic or biodynamic certification. The estate's small-scale, manual vineyard work reduces mechanization impact. Packaging is traditional glass, with potential improvements in light-weight bottles. Transport to international markets does increase footprint, but compared to large scale industrial producers, impact remains moderate.