The 2022 Domaine William Fèvre Chablis Premier Cru Montmains is a beautifully precise 100% Chardonnay from the left bank of the Serein in Chablis, produced by one of the appellation's benchmark domaines. William Fèvre owns approximately 3.8 hectares across ten parcels within the broader Montmains Premier Cru, including holdings in Montmains, Forêts and Butteaux. The soils are relatively deep over classic Kimmeridgian marl and limestone, with a high proportion of stones and southeast-facing exposures. This combination gives Montmains more breadth and power than some Chablis Premier Crus while retaining the unmistakable mineral character of the region. The domaine describes it as a particularly structured, nervy and age-worthy expression of Chablis.
The winemaking is deliberately restrained. After gentle pneumatic pressing and light settling, fermentation takes place primarily in stainless steel, followed by 18 months of élevage. Approximately 30% of the wine spends five to six months on fine lees in French oak barrels, with the remainder and final maturation taking place in small stainless-steel tanks. At just 12.5% alcohol, the 2022 combines green apple, pear, lemon and lime with white flowers, subtle honey, oyster shell, iodine and crushed stone. Critical reception has been excellent: Jasper Morris MW 93–95 Points, Decanter 93 Points, Burghound 90–93 Points and Wine Advocate 91+ Points. Morris particularly praised its intensity, persistent lime character and exceptionally dry, salivating finish, while William Kelley highlighted its layered texture, taut structure and strong cellaring potential.
