2009 Domaine Francois Raveneau, Chablis “Foret” Premier Cru, White Burgundy.
Bernard Raveneau’s wines are some of the most celebrated wines in the world, and it is a massive gift to try these highly sought after Chablis that are usually snapped up by rabid collectors and passionate wine lovers, making them rarely seen. This 2009 Foret is one of the most accessible young Raveneau I’ve tried and think it may just be a wine that might be best to drink up in it’s youth. Clearly 2009, being a riper year plays a part, making for a touch less acidity than is more common in these Chablis and there is a developed nutty character coming through already more like a Chassagne than a fine Chablis. That all said, this is a beautiful wine and very complete and giving with exotic flavors and classic minerallity, the nose has hazelnut, white flowers and wet stones which lead to a palate of lemon curd, lime blossom, chalk, pear and white peaches. The is a wild note of tropical fruit and the lemony note lingers forcefully on the long finish. While not even close to the best Raveneau, this is a refined and pure Chablis with plenty of charms to enjoy, and for sure it was a wonderful treat to try, and it reminded me to save my pennies to secure some Raveneau in the future.
($130 Est.) 92 Points, grapelive
