2012 Chablis Grand Cru Château Grenouilles La Chablisienne

(from very old vines). Soft but not invisible wood sets off a ripe mix of mineral reduction, white and yellow orchard fruit, seaweed and tidal pool nuances. There is exceptionally good richness to the generously proportioned and impressively well-concentrated flavors that coat the palate on the imposingly scaled finish where the wood telegraphed by the nose resurfaces. Note that this will need time to develop but it should be terrific in time. 2022+ .

An elegant and complex example with floral, earthy and citrus fruit perfume. Delicately harmonious lime zest and mineral palate with elegant progression and fine grained smokiness. All wrapped up with an impressive length.

Tasted on two occasions, the 2012 Chablis Grand Cru Chateau Grenouilles is probably the best offering from La Chablisenne this year. It comes from 7.19 hectares (equivalent to 80% of the grand cru) of 40-year-old vines and spends 20 months in stainless steel and wooden barrels. The nose is very well-defined and harmonious with subtle white peach, citrus peel and pear-drop scents that are all quite seductive. The palate is very well- balanced with well-judged acidity. There is good weight on the mid- palate while the finish has very good weight and focus, even if it requires a few years for the oak to be fully assimilated. Very fine. Drink 2017-2027.