Domaine Billaud-Simon is renowned for producing some of the best wines in Chablis, long recognised for their steely, mineral style. Domaine Billaud Simon owns 20 hectares of vineyards in some of the best areas in Chablis. Most of the domaine’s wines see no oak at all, apart from the Premier Cru Mont de Milieu which is 40% vinified in oak and the Grand Cru Les Blanchots, which is 100% vinified in oak.
Vaillons is derived from the term ‘vallon’, meaning ‘small valley’. The term ‘valson’ was also used previously. ‘Vaillons’ originates from the Latin vallis or valles meaning an ‘elongated area between two raised zones’.
Total surface area: 15 ha / Surface area of our parcel: 2 ha 95 a
Soils: Very pebbly clay-limestone colluvial deposits on a kimmeridgian subsoil
Exposure: Right bank. South, South-West
Grape variety: Chardonnay
Hand harvested in order to preserve the quality of the fruit. The grapes are sorted manually on a vibrating sorting table in order to retain only the most healthy fruit. The grapes are drained naturally before being pressed using a pneumatic press in order to gently extract the juices and conserve as much aroma as possible. Static cold settling of the musts for 12 to 24 hours in stainless steel vats in order to obtain a bright, clear juice. Alcoholic fermentation followed by malolactic fermentation, both natural, in stainless steel vats. 14 to 16 months in stainless steel vats with, if necessary, some time spent in French oak barrels. The ageing process preserves freshness and minerality whilst bringing complexity and body to the wine. The wine is racked twice before being bottled in the end of Autumn.
The 2019 vintage saw extreme climatic conditions ranging from frosts to heatwaves but is very promising indeed. The mild winter temperatures, particularly in February, woke up the vegetation. The growing cycle was then interrupted by a cold spell in spring (14 April) which slowed down the development of the vines. Bud burst began in mid-April and the first flowers appeared around the 11 June. Summer was very warm and sunny and veraison took place in early August. In spite of the climatic variations, the vines did not suffer and were in perfect health. The harvest took place in glorious sunny weather. 2019 has produced fresh, rich and beautifully ripe wines with good concentration without any loss of acidity on the palate. Excellent cellaring potential.
Bright, clear hue with attractive golden tinges. This 1er Cru offers remarkable aromatic complexity with aromas of ripe citrus and white flowers. Excellent length with refined aromatic persistency, combining fruity notes, touches of jasmine and chamomile, and a delicate acidity.
Pan-fried foie gras, salmon trout, baked haddock parcels.
10°C to 12 °C
BURGHOUND, NOVEMBER 2020, SCORE: 90-92
There is even classic Chablis character suffusing the white peach, pear and pretty floral nuances. The racy, intense and solidly mineral-driven medium weight flavors culminate in a saline and lemony finish that displays a mild touch of austerity. Drink 2026+
MATTHEW JUKES, NOVEMBER 2020, SCORE: 17.5
With a chalky, citrus attack, this is a firm wine with a mineral edge which brings a dramatic sourness to the flavour. Edgy and lean there is a raspy note here which makes the mouth water. The fruit is mountain-stream-fresh and there is a coolness which is extremely enticing. Drink 2022-2027
JASPER MORRIS MW, DECEMBER 2020, SCORE: 90-93
From six plots well distributed across Vaillons. For example, they pick the 75 year old vines in Séchets a week before those in Mélinots at the far end of the valley. Notably pale in colour, very reductive, suggestive of fresh mint on the stones. Almost dainty within the context of the vintage, yet with good grip at the back. 4 stars.
Chablis, France
100% Chardonnay
Cork
Yes
Yes
