Vineyard and winemaking
Les Preuses covers 10.8 hectares on the Chablis Grand Cru slope, facing south and south-west above an ancient stony route from which its name is thought to derive. Variations of brown and pale clay over Kimmeridgian limestone give Chardonnay power, breadth and a distinctive mineral persistence.
Thomas Ventoura harvests by hand and ferments with indigenous yeasts, beginning in stainless steel and completing malolactic fermentation before six months in oak. The wine then returns to stainless steel for further maturation until bottling, balancing texture with freshness. Total production was just 600 bottles.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Bright straw gold with youthful golden highlights.
Nose
Ripe pear, apple and lemon curd are joined by white flowers, toasted almond and wet limestone.
Palate
Dense and powerful, yet kept in balance by vibrant acidity. Orchard fruit and citrus sit over a creamy, saline middle, while oak, stone and a cool mineral note build into a long, elegant finish.
Food pairing
Pair with roasted langoustines, Dover sole Véronique, chicken with vin jaune and morels, or a lobster and leek gratin. Serve at 11–13°C and allow time in a broad white-wine glass.
Background story
Auguste Ventoura established the domaine at Fontenay-près-Chablis in 1953. Thomas Ventoura took responsibility in 2009 and has developed an 11-hectare estate across Petit Chablis, Chablis and Premier Cru holdings, farming sustainably with a strong reliance on organic methods.
This minute-production 2022 Les Preuses marks an exceptional extension of the domaine into Grand Cru Chablis. Guide Hachette 2025 awarded it two stars, its designation for a remarkable wine. It can be enjoyed with air now, although the concentration and acidity offer clear scope for further bottle development.
