Domaine Long-Depaquit Chablis 1Er Cru “Les Lys”

Domaine Long-Depaquit, Albert Bichot's 65-hectare Chablis estate, sits on the ancient seabed soils that define the appellation's identity: Kimmeridgian limestone and clay studded with fossilised oyster shells, the geological signature that drives Chablis's saline, chalky tension. Les Lys is a Premier Cru climat on the Left Bank, where the cool continental microclimate and north-facing aspect slow ripening and concentrate mineral extract rather than sugar accumulation. Bichot's structural decision to vinify Chablis at Domaine Long-Depaquit itself — rather than centralising production in Beaune — means the wine never leaves its sub-regional context during élevage. Premier Cru whites at this level are barrel-fermented in used French oak (Tronçais and Allier, light toast) with a portion in stainless steel, then aged 11–16 months, preserving the site's mineral architecture while adding textural weight. The entire estate has been farmed organically since the 2018 vintage, a commitment that distinguishes Domaine Long-Depaquit from the majority of Chablis's large-scale operators. The 2023 vintage delivered warm conditions with excellent sanitary health, producing a Chablis with pronounced floral lift and clean mineral definition — drink from 2025 through 2030.