Chablis Premier Cru Wine Region Guide

The Chablis Premier Cru appellation is one of the Chablis appellations, located in Burgundy, central East France. This is a charming wine region known for its prestigious wine. During a wine tour in Chablis Premier Cru with stunning views of the grape valley of the right and left banks, you will discover the secrets of this unique wine's birth and ageing. The valuable, world-famous heritage of the region is not its only wealth. The old village, anchored on the shore of Serein, hides a few gems that can be discovered.  Rich in its forest environment, Chablis is a must-stop for lovers of white wine and gastronomy, history, walks and scenery!

Where is the Chablis Premier Cru Wine Region?

The Chablis Premier Cru appellation is one of the Chablis appellation, located in Burgundy, central East of France.

This appellation has 40 localities (clima) classified as Premier Cru, including 17 main ones. Wine production locaties are: Beines, Chablis, La Chapelle Vaupelteigne, Chichée, Courgis, Fleys, Fontenay-Près-Chablis, Fyé, Maligny, Milly, Poinchy. 

Unique Terroir of Chablis Premier Cru Appellation

The Chablis Premier Cru appellation is one of the most important Burgundy wine zones and is located on both sides of the Serein River. 40 localities (climate) are officially registered on the territory of the appellation, and the most famous sites are located on the right-bank lands. Traditionally, wines from this appellation are labelled as Chablis 1er Cru, since the word “premier” means “first” in French. The uniqueness of the local grape harvests lies in the special terroir. On the site of the modern Chablis Premier Cru, there was a sea more than 130 million years ago, which caused the limestone composition of the soils. Grapes grown in such conditions demonstrate smooth minerality in taste. The climate of the appellation is moderately continental, with rather harsh winters and hot summers.

History Of Chablis Premier Cru Wine Region

Wine production in this region of France began during the reign of the Roman emperors in the 12th century at Cistercian monasteries.

Chablis wineries were first mentioned in 1245; by the middle of the 15th century, the products had spread all the way to Flanders, and by the 17th century, they had spread all the way to Britain.

The Chablis Premier Cru controlled designation of origin, which was established in January 1938, stands as a testament to the perfection of this dry white wine. Unlike other vineyards, it has retained its top spot throughout time owing to a high-quality varietal (Chardonnay).

What Is Chablis Premier Cru Wine?

Chardonnay is the only variety allowed for the production of high–quality Chablis Premier Cru wines. At the Premier Cru level, the sun, microclimate, and soil composition begin to show the complex terroir of the area. 

Premier Cru can be considered the best in terms of price and quality: a decent wine, given the quality, character and amazing intrigue from bottle to bottle.

About thirty sites, selected due to their location and product quality, produce Chablis Premier Cru wines. It differs from the previous appellation not only by the greater maturity of the grapes, but also by a more complex and persistent bouquet of wines, combining the aromas of honey from acacia, an almost imperceptible note of iodine and green shades.

All winemakers agree that the wines of Chablis Premier Cru reach perfection in the fifth year, when they acquire a shade of hazelnuts.

Food To Pair With Chablis Premier Cru Wine

Lobster Thermidor

A traditional French dish is the lavish lobster Thermidor. The dish is put together and baked in whole lobster tails using lobster meat that has been sautéed in wine or cognac and combined with cheese, a creamy sauce made of eggs, and other ingredients.

It incorporates all the classic French ingredients, like butter and cream, which, when combined with lobster, create an opulent dish.

The dish is typically made for special occasions and served in restaurants. During the middle of the 20th century, when it was frequently found in many restaurants all over the world, it was a restaurant favorite. It is typically served in authentic French eateries today and is regarded as a classic of French cooking.

Oyster Canapés 

These canapés can be made in a straightforward or an elaborate and pricey variety, using either smoked, raw, or blanched oysters that can then, depending on the recipe, be made into a spread or used as a topping. Although serving an oyster in its shell, whether raw or cooked, is not unusual, the base is typically a simple toast or dark rye. 

Paired with Chablis Premiere Cru wines make fantastic duet. 

Bresse Bleu

French cheese known as Bresse Bleu is produced using pasteurized cow's milk. This blue cheese has a soft and creamy texture beneath its bloomy white rind. The flavour is rich and buttery, with a fresh, mushroomy aroma. Penicillium roqueforti is added to the curds during the production of Bresse Bleu, and the rounds of cheese are rubbed with Penicillium camemberti after moulding.

After that, the cheese is allowed to mature for 2-4 weeks before being eaten. Bresse Bleu is unusually milder and saltier than most blue cheeses. It makes a perfect match with white grapes, walnut bread and Chablis wines.

Places To Visit In Chablis Premier Cru 

Chablis, The Golden Gate to Burgundy

A large church is flanked by gabled homes with slate roofs in the city of Chablis. The necessities of French rural life may be found throughout the little streets. Despite modern supermarkets, bakeries, butchers, and cafés remain prospering. The wineries are another option. They may be found hiding behind obscure doorways leading to courtyards and basements on every street.

The vines are too obvious to ignore. They are the heart and soul of Chablis. On both banks of the Seren River, vineyards rise above the surroundings. This is the spot of wonderful gastronomical, slow life and, of course, wine experiences. 

Auxerre, One Of The Most Beautiful Towns of Burgundy

Auxerre is undoubtedly one of the most stunning views of the Yonne and is included in the list of amazing locations and cities in France.  By following in the steps of Cadet Roussel, one may explore the incredible collection of artifacts that make up the medieval heart, which extends from the Abbey of Saint-Germain to the Cathedral of Saint-Étienne through the Clock Tower.

Unquestionably, one of the best ways to experience the city is to take an electric boat tour down the Yonne River. You'll daydream about ancient times as you see images of a medieval city that has been designated a City of Art and History.

Auxerre is a great place to start a bike tour as it is surrounded by well-known wineries of Chablis region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chablis Premier Cru