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.
95 Points Allen Meadows
This is even more infused with classic Chablis elements with its abundance of oyster shell and tidal pool nuances that add breadth to the notable cool and restrained citrus peel and green fruit aromas. The rich, powerful, concentrated and mouth coating broad-shouldered flavors possess real drive but also beautiful detail on the pungently mineral-driven finish that possesses outstanding length and almost painful intensity. This is stunningly good and while I don’t think that it will quite match the unbelievable quality of the 2008, it may not miss by much.
94+ Points Robert Parker Wine Advocate
The 2014 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur, which I did not taste last year from barrel, has a riveting bouquet with cold, wet limestone and slate-like aromas that are extremely focused. The palate is well defined with a keen thread of acidity, very saline with a mouthwatering sappiness on the finish. Stubbornly backward, almost sultry and petulant, it will need several years to really settle into its groove. I strongly suspect this has something up its sleeve for those who allow this to mature for several years in the cellar.