2015 Chablis Les Clos
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Tasting notes
(just a single one-year-old Chassin 200-liter barrel produced; Billaud's vines are high on the hillside, near Blanchots and next to Faiveley's holding, in a zone where there's a lot of fan leaf virus; in fact, Faiveley has decided to hold back their tiny quantity of 2015 Clos for a future anniversary celebration): Bright yellow. Rather cool scents of ginger, cinnamon, white pepper and crushed rock. The palate displays a juicy, tight core of lemony citricity, with terrific energy and penetrating acidity. Very fresh, tight grand cru with nothing exotic about it; less fat and more salty than the Valmur. Finishes brisk and palate-staining. A baby today and built for extended aging.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2015 Chablis Grand Cru les Clos, from a plot close to Faiveley towards the top of the vineyard, was reduced to two barrels this vintage. It seems to shrug off the hail damage on the nose: well defined with crisp citrus fruit, quince and apricot blossom. The palate is well balanced with fine acidity and a slight marine note towards the finish, with hints of crustacea and a pinch of white pepper. This is a mercurial les Clos that seems to constantly change in the glass. Sophistication and class—that is all.
About the producer
Samuel Billaud started making wine under his own name in 2009, but he is one of the most experienced producers in Chablis, having made wine in the region since 1985.