Dom. Billaud Simon Chablis Grand Cru Vaudesir 2023

For Domaine Billaud-Simon (Option 1), the 2023 Chablis Grand Cru 'Vaudésir' is a wine of remarkable elegance and floral lift. In 2026, it is celebrated as one of the most accessible and "sensual" Grand Crus of the vintage, benefiting from the unique microclimate of its natural amphitheater.

The Vibe

Vaudésir is often called the "Valley of Desires" because its steep, south-facing slopes protect the vines from cold winds, allowing for a more consistent and "golden" ripeness. While Billaud-Simon's Les Clos is about power and architecture, their Vaudésir is about silk, perfume, and harmony. In 2023, the domaine achieved a perfect balance of intensity without any heaviness, resulting in a wine that feels "airy" despite its Grand Cru concentration.

The Nose

The bouquet is highly complex and "wafts" from the glass with a distinctive floral character:

• The Flowers: Dominant notes of acacia, lime blossom, and jasmine.

• The Fruit: Gentle scents of vine peach, apricot, and honeyed citrus.

• The Finish: A very pure ozone and sea-breezy line that provides a refreshing, mineral lift.

The Taste

On the palate, the 2023 Vaudésir is well-structured, savory, and remarkably silky.

• The Texture: It has a "greasy" or oily layer of concentration (typical of Vaudésir) that gives it a luxurious, caressing mouthfeel.

• The Profile: Flavors of ripe apple and lemon are supported by a piquant, lively acidity. There is a subtle hint of vanilla and almond from the limited and judicious use of oak.

• The Finish: Long and "focused," concluding with a clean, tangy aftertaste and a persistent saline grip.

📋 Product Specs (2026 Status)

Best Paired With:

• The Seafood Pair: Scallops or Breton Lobster; the wine's silkiness is a perfect textural match for delicate shellfish.

• The Gourmet Choice: Bresse poultry with morels or a creamy mushroom risotto.

• The "Raw" Match: Sea urchin or high-grade sashimi; the floral notes and salinity act as a perfect bridge.

• The Cheese: A young, creamy Brillat-Savarin or fresh goat cheese.

Pro Tip: In 2026, Vaudésir is the "sensualist's" Grand Cru. Because it is naturally more aromatic and open than Les Clos, it only needs a 30-minute decant to fully bloom. Serve at 11–12°C—slightly cooler than the heavier Grand Crus—to highlight its delicate floral perfumes.