Dom. Billaud Simon Chablis 1er Cru Vaulorent 2023

Chablis 1er Cru 'Vaulorent' 2023

The "Uncrowned Grand Cru" – Precision Meets Golden Ripeness

In 2026, the 2023 Vaulorent from Domaine Billaud-Simon is one of the most exciting bottles in their lineup. Vaulorent is widely considered the "8th Grand Cru" because it is the only Premier Cru located on the same iconic hill as the Grand Crus, sitting right next to Les Preuses.

In the generous 2023 vintage, this site’s natural "coolness" and ventilation were essential in preserving the Chablis typicity against the summer warmth.

The Vibe

This is a wine of exceptional depth and "iodine" character. Because the vines are quite old (some dating back to 1952), they reach deep into the Kimmeridgian limestone, resulting in a wine that feels "thicker" and more muscular than a standard Premier Cru. In 2023, Billaud-Simon utilized approximately 25% wood aging, which doesn't make the wine taste like oak, but rather gives it a "super-sleek" and succulent texture.

The Nose

The 2023 is remarkably expressive right now:

• The Fruit: A concentrated core of yellow plum, fresh pear, and lemon confit.

• The Marine: An "explosion" of classic Chablis elements—shellfish, sea breeze, and wet stones.

• The Nuance: Delicate floral wisps of acacia and a hint of petrol (characteristic of high-quality aged Chardonnay) beginning to emerge.

The Taste

On the palate, Vaulorent is broad-shouldered but vibrantly energetic.

• The Texture: It is notably rich and "sappy," with a density that coats the tongue. This is the "Grand Cru" weight showing through.

• The Profile: Despite the ripeness of the 2023 fruit, the wine remains youthfully austere. It has a "bitter-lemon" grip and a powerful line of saline acidity that keeps it fresh.

• The Finish: Very long and "classy." It leaves a lingering sensation of crushed chalk and saline minerals.

📋 Product Specs (2026 Status)

Best Paired With:

• The Luxury Match: Grilled Lobster or turbot with a light hollandaise; the wine's density matches the richness of the fish.

• The Mineral Pair: Oysters Rockefeller or scallops sautéed in butter and herbs.

• The Savory Twist: Roast Quail or poultry with morels.

• The Cheese: An aged Comté (36 months) or a firm, nutty sheep's milk cheese.

Pro Tip: In 2026, this wine is still quite "compact." If you are opening it now, decant it for at least 45 minutes. This is a powerful, serious wine that acts more like a Grand Cru than a Premier Cru. Serve at 11–13°C to let the yellow plum and iodine notes fully expand.