The 2022 Roland Lavantureux Chablis Grand Cru Vaudésir is a concentrated Chardonnay from one of northern Burgundy’s celebrated Grand Cru vineyards. The domaine sources this cuvée through a longstanding partnership covering approximately 0.55 hectares in the upper, south-facing section of Vaudésir. This sheltered exposure encourages ripeness and intensity, producing a wine that can be reserved in youth before revealing its complexity with age. The estate’s published approach involves fermentation in stainless steel, followed by 12–15 months of maturation predominantly in oak barrels, with a smaller proportion in tank. This combination builds texture and depth while preserving the wine’s mineral definition.
The 2022 offers peach and ripe citrus, with subtle toast and a generous palate balanced by freshness. Neal Martin awarded it 93 Points for Vinous following a blind tasting, highlighting its expressive bouquet, bright entry and appealing, zesty finish. His assessment notes that 80% was matured in used barrels, with sufficient fruit to integrate the oak influence over time. The domaine’s description of Vaudésir similarly emphasises the interplay between ripe, almost exotic fruit and mineral intensity. This is a substantial expression of Chablis, combining the breadth expected of Grand Cru Chardonnay with enough energy to keep the palate focused.
Ben’s Recommendation:
What appeals to me about this bottle is its combination of generous fruit, layered texture and Chablis freshness. It should suit someone who enjoys white Burgundy with substance and subtle oak, particularly alongside richer seafood dishes. I would aim to enjoy it from approximately 2027 through 2037, assuming careful storage, with earlier bottles showing more fruit and later ones potentially developing nutty and savoury complexity. If opening now, allow around 30–45 minutes in a generous Burgundy glass and follow how it unfolds before deciding whether to decant. Lobster, scallops, turbot with beurre blanc or roast chicken with morels would all complement its depth and mineral finish. A rewarding Grand Cru to follow over several years.
