Chablis Premier Cru refers to wines, made entirely from the Chardonnay grape, from single vineyards in the Chablis district of the Burgundy region. Located some 60 miles north of the heart of Burgundy, the Chablis district has two designations for its single vineyard wines: Grand Cru, at the top level, and then Premier Cru, one step below that.

Along the River Serein that flows through the Chablis district, there are 40 vineyards – known locally as climats – that have been registered as Premier Cru. Wines from these vineyards tend to have more expressive aromas and more depth of fruit than a wine labeled as Chablis or Petit Chablis. There are Premier Cru vineyards located on both sides of the river, with those situated on the right bank (this receives more afternoon sun) being more powerful than those on the left bank. Among the most sought after right bank Premier Crus are Mont de Milieu and Fourchaume.

Medium-full on the palate, the wines are usually aged in small oak barrels, but have less of an oaky profile, as compared to other famous white Burgundies, such as Meursault or Corton Charlemagne. A top Premier Cru Chablis has aromas of pear and lemon, along with notes of green apples and white flowers. Acidity is usually very good and there is a light minerality in the wines; this a factor of the limestone soils on which the Chardonnay grapes are grown.

Premier Cru Chablis age beautifully, anywhere from seven to 15 or 20 years. They are ideally paired with river fish or poultry in a cream or other rich sauce. (Wine/Appellations)