Vineyards and winemaking
The Pautré vineyard lies at Lignorelles on the north-western edge of Chablis, where 30- to 40-year-old Chardonnay vines occupy a south-facing, calcareous plateau beside woodland. The exposure brings reliable sunlight, while the chalky ground and cool northern climate preserve acidity and the stony character associated with the appellation.
Jean-Marc Brocard has managed the operation since Alain Pautré passed on responsibility in 2005. Fermentation and maturation take place entirely in stainless steel, with no oak, protecting the wine’s citrus, fresh almond and mineral clarity; bottling is completed at Brocard’s base in Préhy.
Tasting notes
Appearance
Pale lemon gold with green-silver highlights.
Nose
Lemon, grapefruit and green apple are joined by white blossom and fresh almond. A cool note of wet stone and a faint aniseed lift give the nose recognisable Chablis precision.
Palate
Dry and finely structured, with citrus peel and orchard fruit carried by vivid acidity. A little bottle-age breadth now softens the attack, while saline, flinty mineral notes persist through the clean finish.
Food pairing
Pair with native oysters, grilled scallops, lemon sole with brown butter, or goat’s cheese and leek tart. Its freshness also works neatly with fish and chips served with restrained tartare sauce.
Background story
Alain Pautré was the third generation of his family to grow vines at Lignorelles, building a reputation around an unadorned, traditional expression of Chablis. The estate passed into the care of Jean-Marc Brocard, one of the region’s leading growers, while retaining its original identity.
The 2019 has developed beyond its most youthful phase but remains bright and precise. Serve at around 10–12°C and allow it to warm slightly in the glass; prolonged decanting is unnecessary.
