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 Wine Advocate
A brilliant wine that numbers among the finest recent renditions of this cuvée, Raveneau’s 2017 Chablis 1er Cru Butteaux wafts from the glass with a complex bouquet of lemon oil, green apple, dried white flowers, almond paste and iodine. On the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, satiny and layered, with terrific depth and concentration, racy acids and exquisite textural finesse. Impeccably balanced, this is a strikingly elegant, complete Butteaux that’s somewhat reminiscent of the domaine’s 2010, though I suspect it will drink well sooner than that wine.
95 Points Vinous
The 2017 Chablis Butteaux 1er Cru is a deep, powerful wine with a prominent center of stony minerality that gives the wine its distinctive personality. Dried flowers, savory herbs, citrus peel, crushed rocks and white pepper all develop in the glass. The natural power of old vines and a cool micro-climate yield a Chablis of real distinction. The 2017 is a Chablis of extraordinary class and nuance. Inward and chiseled to the core, the Butteaux is a model of classicism. I loved it.
95 Points James Suckling
A windy plot along to the top of Montmains. This has a quite powerful and concentrated array of ripe white peaches and mangoes. The clay in the soil here adds a lot of texture to the palate. Finishes very succulent, juicy and intense. Wow!