Viniou Reviews
The 2019 Chablis Premier Cru “Butteaux” from Domaine François Raveneau stands as a benchmark of refined Burgundian white wine. Crafted exclusively from Chardonnay, this cuvée showcases the meticulous work of one of Chablis’ most renowned producers. The Butteaux vineyard, part of the Montmains Premier Cru sector, is celebrated for its clay-limestone soil enriched with ancient Kimmeridgian marl, imparting a distinctive minerality and tension to the wine. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a warm, relatively dry growing season, resulting in grapes of exceptional health and concentration. Vinification here is traditional: gentle pressing, fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and élevage on fine lees in older oak barrels, which gently polishes the wine without masking its purity.
Chablis itself, nestled in northern Burgundy, is famed for its cool continental climate that brings pristine acidity and laser-sharp precision to its Chardonnay wines. The soils, dominated by limestone and fossil-rich marl, lend the wines their unmistakable steely minerality and saline finish. Chablis’ historical ties date back to Cistercian monks in the Middle Ages, and the region’s unwavering dedication to terroir expression has made it a touchstone for lovers of vibrant, elegantly structured white wines.
A wine of such purity and finesse warrants thoughtful food pairings. The Raveneau Butteaux 2019 will elevate classic seafood dishes, such as freshly shucked oysters, poached langoustines, or Dover sole meunière. It also pairs beautifully with Burgundian specialities like pike quenelles with a light beurre blanc, or simply roasted chicken with morel mushrooms. For a local touch, try it alongside a goat cheese crottin from nearby Berry or a fine Comté, whose nutty character will complement the wine’s mineral core.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 10-12°C. A brief decanting—20 to 30 minutes—can help the wine express its full aromatic complexity. If aged further, it will gracefully develop notes of hazelnut, honey, and flint, rewarding patience with exquisite depth.
