The 2009 Chablis Vaillons is wonderfully alive in the glass. A gorgeous well-articulated bouquet resonates on the palate where layers of crystalline fruit emerge with notable pedigree. The Vaillons shows terrific energy and focus all the way through to the finish. Hints of lemon peel grapefruit and jasmine linger on the pointed finish. This is a gorgeous wine from Droin. The Vaillons was aged 20% in wood. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2024. This is an exciting set of wines from Benoit Droin one of the generation of rising stars in Chablis. The estate farms nine hectares of vineyards. Benoit Droin told me his choice of when to start picking in 2009 was deeply influenced by 2006 a year in which he felt he waited too long. The 2009s were brought in beginning in early September. The wines were fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in steel and/or barrel depending on the specific wine as noted above. The 2010s which I tasted from tank in their final blends were among the highlights of my trip to Chablis. The 2010 harvest began on September 20th. Yields were down 30% on average. I also tasted a few older bottles including the 2002 Valmur and 2004 Vaudesir both of which were in great shape. -AG

Here the nose is more floral still with lemon zest and tidal pool nuances both of which also characterize the rich round and generous flavors that maintain balance and a fine sense of harmony on the solidly persistent finish. This is really quite pretty.