The 2019 Raveneau Chablis Premier Cru “Butteaux” is a masterful expression of Chardonnay, capturing the essence of Chablis with exceptional depth, precision, and elegance. Domaine Raveneau, one of Chablis’ most revered producers, is celebrated for crafting terroir-driven wines of unmatched quality. The “Butteaux” vineyard, a climat within the Montmains Premier Cru, benefits from its hillside location, Kimmeridgian limestone soils, and cooler microclimate, resulting in wines with extraordinary tension and minerality.

In the glass, this wine displays a brilliant pale gold hue with shimmering green highlights. The nose is intense and multi-layered, offering aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white peach, accented by floral notes of acacia and subtle hints of crushed oyster shell, flint, and wet stone. With time, nuances of almond, honey, and a touch of white pepper emerge, adding complexity. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with a striking balance of vibrant acidity and creamy texture. The flavors are precise and focused, featuring citrus, orchard fruits, and a saline, mineral-driven core. The finish is incredibly long, clean, and elegant, leaving an impression of purity and sophistication.

The 2019 vintage, marked by warm and consistent conditions, provides this wine with ripe, concentrated fruit while preserving the freshness and structure that define Raveneau’s style. This Premier Cru is an ideal pairing for fresh oysters, lobster, or Dover sole, as well as creamy risottos and poultry dishes with citrus accents. While approachable now for its vibrancy and layered complexity, this “Butteaux” has the depth to age gracefully over the next 10–15 years, revealing even greater nuance with time.

Raveneau’s “Butteaux” is a profound example of Premier Cru Chablis at its finest, offering a seamless combination of power, precision, and terroir-driven character. It is a must-have for serious Burgundy enthusiasts and collectors.