What is Chablis? Chablis is quite simply, Chardonnay from the Chablis wine appellation in Burgundy, in France.

In comparing Chablis vs Chardonnay, Chablis is know for being dry, crisp, flinty and mineral driven with a higher level of acidity. Chablis wines are usually unoaked and display aromas and flavours of green apple, lemon with chalky or flinty notes. Chardonnay can be made in a variety of styles ranging from oaky and creamy to the style that is more like Chablis, dry, unoaked and austere.

Chablis is also the name of the town that lies in the valley of the Serein river, that runs through the northern part of Burgundy, one of the world’s most loved wine regions. Burgundy is famous for Chablis (White Burgundy) and Pinot Noir (Red Burgundy).

The climate in Chablis is is very cool, resulting in bright, fresh wines with high acidity. Chablis and Petit Chablis are also known for displaying aromas and flavours such as green apple, lemon and flint.

Most village level Chablis wines are unoaked and some wine experts believe that Chablis is the purest expression of the varietal character of Chardonnay.

There are four appellations within Chablis, each appellation denotes a level of quality. In general, the best vineyards are planted on the slopes that have favourable south-facing aspects. The vineyards that face south,  receive more sunlight, which allows for greater flavour development in the grapes.

The four appellations are:

1. Petit Chablis – usually grown on the flatter land and the higher slopes that mostly face north. These wines are quite austere.
2. Chablis – also grown on the flatter land and north facing slopes but closer to the village of Chablis.
3. Premier Cru Chablis – tend to be located on the slopes with a better aspect (to sunlight). These wines show riper fruit development and more concentrated fruit aromas and flavours (more citrus that green apple).
4. Grand Cru Chablis  – The Grand Cru Chablis wines come from just one slope and within the 7 ‘climats’ (officially designated vineyard plots). These vineyards have good exposure to the sun, being south facing. Grand Cru Chablis are sometimes aged in oak, which adds a rounder texture and subtle flavours.

The biggest challenge in growing grapes in Chablis is frost, this is often managed through the use of sprinklers and heaters.

Ideal Chablis wine food pairings include light salads, fresh or grilles seafood, oysters or light chicken dishes.

Chablis is a magnificent and much-loved wine. Truly a ‘must try’ for Chardonnay drinkers everywhere!

All of our wines have tasting notes but please reach out to us on info@dailydrop.com.au if we can help in any way. We are proud to offer some of the most consistent Chablis wines in the world. As an online wine retailer, our Chablis wines are 100% guaranteed.