Collet Chablis “Valvan” 2023

The Domaine Collet is run these days by Romain Collet, the energetic and talented grandson of Jean Collet, the founder. He experiments with all of today’s means of elevage, so a visitor to the cellars now walks past not only stainless steel tanks and large oak foudres, but also cement eggs, clay amphoras, and barrels of all sizes, from traditional Burgundian to demi-muids holding 400 or 500 liters. Romain skillfully matches the new and old techniques with the various terroirs, crafting delicious and varied wines with much character.

At the village level this year, we’ve got Romain’s new cuvée, from terroir that lies alongside the premier crus on the slope collectively known as “Vaillons.” Chablis “Valvan” is  eminently drinkable, plentifully fresh and expressive.  Its 60 year old vines provide plenty of stuffing, but dry and lively as a Chablis should be. Jasper Morris praised its “attractively chiselled white fruit, fresh lemons and a crunchy finish.” The village-level designation contributes an attractive price.