From: Chablis, France
Blend: Chardonnay
Taste: The Collet's intricate understanding of the terroir has led them to produce wines that truly represent their origins. Their 2021 Montmains 1er cru is cultivated on the historic Kimmeridgian limestone. With vines averaging 35 years, this 100% Chardonnay is aged for up to 12 months, delivering a rich yet refreshingly crisp wine. The aromatic presence of white flowers and ripe fruit on the palate, combined with a subtly pronounced acidity, makes it a delightful experience. This bottle can be enjoyed immediately but will hold easily for another 3-5 years.
Pairing: The wine complements various dishes, from finely cooked fish, white poultry, and even a cheese platter to sushi and sashimi. Chablis is a classic pairing with different fish dishes, especially fish seasoned with lemon since it matches the citrus aromas in the wine. Chablis with fish is almost always a good choice. We think this will pair beautifully with fish that is prepared, with delicate flavors like this Mackerel in lemon-infused olive oil.
Mackerel With Lemon Olive Oil and Tomatoes
By Melissa Clark
About. For well over two centuries, the Collet family has lovingly cultivated the vineyards of Chablis. Their profound connection with the land dates back to the dawn of the First Republic in 1792. Generations of the Collet family have inherited and passed on not only the vineyards but also an indomitable spirit, dedication, and a deep knowledge of winemaking.
As the 20th century saw Chablis vineyards thriving, Jean Collet emerged as a visionary, establishing Domaine Jean Collet in 1952. He was not just a pioneer in Chablis but also in exporting these wines to regions as far as Northern Europe, England, the USA, and, by the 1980s, Japan. Jean's union with Janine, also from a wine-growing family, brought additional vineyards into the fold, enriching the estate's offerings.
In the world of wines, legacies often merge and evolve. When Gilles Collet joined the family endeavor after his studies at Beaune wine school, the name evolved to Domaine Jean Collet et Fils. The union of Gilles with Dominique, hailing from the Tupinier wine-growing family, expanded the domain's offerings further, introducing Petit Chablis and Chablis Vieilles Vignes.
Today, the Domaine is carried forward by Romain Collet. Trained at the Beaune wine school like his father and having experienced winemaking in regions from Nuits Saint Georges to distant New Zealand and Australia, Romain embodies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. His accolades include being elected the best taster in Europe at the Concours Général Agricole de Paris in 2007.
Romain's approach is thoughtful and deliberate. Every decision, from using natural yeasts to managing parcels, is a blend of his intrinsic understanding of the vineyard, insights from his global experiences, and the teachings from generations before him. Under Romain's stewardship, the Domaine has embraced organic viticulture, with the 2018 vintage marking the arrival of organic certification for many of their wines.
In terms of vinification, Domaine Jean Collet & Fils doesn't adopt a one-size-fits-all method. Romain explains, “Depending on the terroir and the wine's structure, we make different choices. My grandfather worked like this, and we've maintained this adaptable approach.” Today, the estate sprawls across 40 hectares, with a portfolio ranging from Petit Chablis to Grand Cru. The meticulous care in cultivation, combined with sustainable agriculture practices, ensures that the wines of Domaine Jean Collet & Fils remain in a league of their own.
