Vintage Character 2022 was a warm and very dry year in Chablis, but a wet June and some late rain kept the vines going. Yields were not excessive and acidity stayed high, giving fresh wines with moderate, classic alcohol. Many show the dry, chalky texture and oyster-shell and crushed-stone aromas typical of the appellation. In 2022, the Petit Chablis from Domaine des Malandes reflects that season. Petit Chablis comes from higher, slightly younger limestone soils on the edges of the Chablis vineyard. A village wine comes from vineyards within a single commune and carries the name of that commune or site.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing Lemon, green apple and white flowers lead, with a light mineral note. It is dry and medium-to-full-bodied, with high acidity. The palate is light and crisp, with bright acidity and a clean, short finish. It is made for drinking in its youth. Oysters, prawns and steamed fish are easy partners. Serve at about 8 to 10 degrees Celsius, and avoid over-chilling so the aromas can open. Chardonnay is a flexible grape that reflects its site, from the steely edge of Chablis to the richness of the Côte de Beaune. It also suits a glass at the start of a meal, since the acidity wakes up the palate.
Winery Background Domaine des Malandes was created in 1972 by Lyne Marchive, whose father, André Tremblay, understood the potential of the Grand Cru vineyards at a time when most producers were selling these frost-prone parcels. The family estate farms about 29 hectares in Chablis and is known for freshness, finesse and minerality from Kimmeridgian soils. Guénolé Breteaudeau has made the wines since 2006, using oak in a delicate and measured way to support Marchive's vision of pure, precise and elegant Chablis. This wine is the estate's lightest and freshest Chablis. Lyne Marchive's son and daughter, Richard and Amandine, have since joined the running of the estate.