Domaine Billaud-Simon Les Preuses Chablis Grand Cru 2021

Domaine Billaud-Simon Les Preuses Chablis Grand Cru 2021

This parcel takes its name from the word “pierre” meaning “stone”. La perrière was the old French term for a quarry. “Les Preuses” are situated alongside an ancient Roman road. Over time ‘la pierreuse’ became ‘la Preuse’. The 2021 winter was very classic with average rainfall levels. In late March, the temperatures were much higher than the seasonal average (27°C). Bud burst was expected in mid-April although occurred much earlier (30 March). The cold weather made a sharp return and lasted for a long time with severe frosts
(as low as -8°C) for seven nights on the 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13 and 14 April. Our teams acted admirably in order to protect the newly formed buds. The left bank of the Serein river and the upper plateau were the most impacted (1er Cru Vaillons, Petit Chablis). Flowering took place in mid-June and was quick and heterogeneous. Summer was cool and humid aside from late August and early September.

The 2021 Chablis Les Preuses Grand Cru has a well-defined bouquet and perhaps is the most complete of the Grand Crus from the Domaine. The palate is well balanced with a touch more substance than Les Clos, fine acidity, quite taut and harmonious with good grip and energy on the finish. I can see this ageing nicely in bottle. Drink 2025-2045. 92-94 points Neal Martin - Vinous

All in tank at the moment, and may not be switched to wood. A vast volume, with a slightly oily texture at the moment, but a comforting weight of fruit with very precise acidity at the back. Another first rate Billaud-Simon Preuses in the making. Drink from 2027-2032. 93-95 points Jasper Morris MW - Inside Burgundy