Since 1831, The Bichot family has been at the forefront of Burgundy wines. Over the course of 6 generations, the house style has become more and more refined and distinct in elegance.With Albéric Bichot at the helm since 1996, the house has focused its future on quality, minimal intervention winemaking and organic farming. The embodiment of this approach resulted in their 6 domaines being fully organically certified since 2018, while receiving praise and awards on the quality of the wines.

The “Les Lys” Premier Cru vineyard is located on the left bank of the Serein River, overlooking the villages of Chablis and Milly. Our plot lies at the heart of the Chablis appellation with vines planted halfway up the slope. One factor that contributes to this wine’s expressiveness is its unusual exposure: east/northeast. The proportion of clay in the soil is higher than usual in Chablis, which overlies Kimmeridgian sub-stratum, which exists throughout the Chablis region. This area is cool and the grapes ripen slowly and progressively in the afternoon shade. Exposure and terroir guarantee the minerality, finesse and elegance of this Premier Cru.

Soil – Calcareous and Kimmeridgian clay, with a high proportion of clay. Average age of the vine: 26 years. Parcel size: 2 ha (5 acre) plot

Grape Variety – 100% Chardonnay

Vatting – In stainless steel vats (100%)

Ageing – In stainless steel vats (100%) on fine lees, Ageing time: 12 months

The nose boasts distinct notes of white flowers (“Lys” is French for lily) and citrus fruit. The palate is elegant and finely chiselled with a discreet marine note that is typical of the Chablis appellation. Beautiful, long-lasting finish with a fleeting tinge of acidity.

Food pairing – What come to mind immediately are raw or marinated fish dishes to counterbalance this wine’s minerality. Towards the end of the meal, try matching this wine with dry goat’s cheese or aged Parmesan, which pleasantly complement the natural richness of this wine.

Serve between 11 and 13°C (52°F – 55°F). Lay down for 10 years to preserve the natural elegance of “Les Lys”.

Wine Enthusiast – 93 points

Lemony chalkiness is faint on this wine’s shy nose. The palate paints a fuller picture, using the broad strokes of lemon to reveal brightness, depth and chalky coolness. This wine still needs to knit its divergent parts together but all the elements are there. Wait for this. Drink 2023–2035.

James Suckling – 91-92 points

August 15,2019. This has a very vivid array of melon and peaches on offer with a super fresh, lemon and green mango-flavored palate that delivers some savory cashews and almond bread at the finish. Very focused. Drink on release or hold.

Burghound – 88-91 points

(from a 2 ha holding; all stainless). A cool, pure, airy and more elegant nose combines notes of white flower, pear, green fruit and just enough classic Chablis typicity to be interesting. The round and fleshy middle weight flavors possess a chalky texture before terminating in a saline and refreshing finale that is delicate but punchy. 2023+

Vinous – 90-92 points

The 2018 Chablis Les Lys 1er Cru is bright, precise and beautifully lifted, with lovely citrus, almond, dried herb, saline and white floral character. Medium in body and vibrant, the Lys clearly benefits from the northern exposure of this site and aging in steel. This is an impeccably done wine that shows the more savory style of Chablis. (90-92). January 2020