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
An interesting and beautifully layered nose reflects notes of soft wood, white orchard fruit, citrus confit, iodine, tidal pool and shellfish. The rich, concentrated and quite serious larger-scaled flavors flash plenty of minerality on the muscular and saline-suffused finish that goes on and on. This too is terrific with outstanding development potential; indeed, I would go so far as to say that this is one of the best vintages for the Raveneau Butteaux in some years and I include the 2010 and 2014 in that assertion.
92-96 Points Jasper Morris Inside Burgundy
“Domaine François Raveneau’s holding of, butteaux is at the open end of the valley and near the top of the slope. There is a little clay, but not much topsoil. The vines date back to the 1950s. Pale in colour, with a lean and tense nose that belies the gorgeous weight of fruit, which follows. This 2019, butteaux is enjoying its time in barrel, (NB tasted from 10 year old wood). Huge length here, with a good thread of acidity that sits really well alongside the weight of fruit. Tasted: July 2020.”