William Fèvre Champs Royaux Chablis 2022

The Fèvre family is legitimate Chablisienne royalty, with practically unlimited access to all the diversity this region has to offer. Their magnetic “Champs Royaux” bottling from the epic 2022 vintage is as close to “daily drinker” Chablis as you can get for under $30 (with free shipping on just three bottles)!

Chablis has our hearts. The incredibly crunchy, zippy, mineral-loaded, charmingly piquant pocket of Burgundy will forever fill us with butterflies – especially when we have access to an approachable bottling such as this (from a much beloved domaine of the region, no less)! With more than 250 years of history – and boasting the title of one of the largest land owners in Chablis – Domaine William Fèvre owns nearly 200 acres of vineyards scattered throughout the chalky, limestone hills of the region. As such, they have access to quality and pedigree across all ranges of the tiers throughout Chablis.

The buoyantly fresh and whimsically light 2022 vintage in Chablis was truly stunning, and this “Champs Royaux” (“royal fields”) comes from a selection of 37 hectares of characteristic Kimmeridgian subsoil-laden vineyards with ideal exposure on both banks of the Serein river. Fermentation on native yeasts, followed by aging in mostly stainless steel (with 5% used French oak), preserves the bright acidity and punchy freshness of fruit, keeping things light, bright, and spritely.

This 100% Chardonnay breathes freshness and minerality, with supple notes of lemon, tangerine, and green apple percolating playfully ahead of white flowers, wet stone, flint, white pepper, and some creamy pear puree on the whimsically lengthy finish. The acidity will leave your mouth watering, though it’s balanced thoroughly with just-enough warmth and a hint of soft creaminess. This is a standout and precise Chablis – especially given its happy little price tag. Three bottles get you free shipping, but if I were you, I’d eagerly take home at least six!

PAIRING IDEAS: I’m desperately craving a sticky, sweet, and salty chicken teriyaki bowl with this incredibly vibrant Chablis – and this recipe looks sublime.