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ProducerDomaine François Raveneau
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Vintage2012
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Grape VarietyChardonnay
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RegionBurgundy
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Sub RegionChablis
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SizeBottle
Not only does the Raveneau family own many of the finest sites in the appellation, but their wines have a steely magnificence that captures the essence of Chablis’ distinctive terroir. The greatness of Raveneau’s Chablis has even led some to suggest they deserve an appellation of their own.
Raveneau wines are famous for their longevity. In fact, many believe that a top Raveneau Chablis doesn’t hit its stride until it’s at least 8 to 10 years old. At this time, the wines not only acquire even greater richness, but layer upon layer of previously hidden flavors are revealed.
Along with René and Vincent Dauvissat, Raveneau pioneered the use of Côte d’Or winemaking in Chablis, including barrel fermentation and extended lees contact.
94 Points Allen Meadows
A strikingly elegant and pure nose that features notes of white flowers, spiced pear, iodine and oyster shell is also trimmed in a deft touch of oak. There is remarkable concentration to the intense, driving and highly energetic flavors that exude a fine minerality on the explosively long finish. This really builds from the mid-palate before staining the palate as it fans out. Most impressive.
95 Points Antonio Galloni
Petrol, graphite, smoke, slate and white stone fruits grace the palate in the 2012 Chablis Montee de Tonnerre. Vivid and utterly crystalline, Raveneaus’s 2012 is a great essay into to qualities of one of the great – maybe the single greatest – 1er Cru site in Chablis. The 2012 has a few more new oak than is typically the case, as most of the new barrels in this vintage were used here. A thrilling finish rounds things off in style.
93+ Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Served alongside the 2014 vintage, the 2012 Chablis 1er Cru Montée de Tonnerre is also showing very well indeed, offering up a riper bouquet of fresh peach, green apple, beeswax and oyster liquor that’s also framed by a light touch of reduction and reveals a very delicate touch of recently used oak influence. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, broad and satiny, with more amplitude and flesh, with a deep, concentrated core.