The Vrignaud family has been growing vines in Fontenay-près-Chablis for five generations. Guillaume Vrignaud joined the family domaine in 1999, left the local cooperative to start bottling under the family name, and has since grown the estate to 28 hectares, certified organic since 2009. The domaine's Fourchaume parcels sit within the Premier Cru vineyard long known as "La Grande Côte" for its reputation dating back to the 16th century.
This 2023 bottle carries the Chablis 1er Cru Fourchaume appellation, one of the most respected Premier Cru vineyards in Chablis, planted on Kimmeridgian limestone and brown clay soils that give the wines their signature minerality. Made from 100% Chardonnay, the grapes come from older vines than a standard village-level Chablis, contributing more concentration and depth. Fermentation relies on native yeasts, with time spent on the lees before bottling to build texture and roundness. Expect notes of green apple, lemon, and crushed stone, with a saline, chalky finish that's more intense and structured than a basic Chablis or Petit Chablis.
The result is a true expression of Premier Cru terroir from a family that has farmed this ground for generations.