An emblematic Burgundy winegrowing area : Chablis Fourchaume
Located on the right bank of the Serein river, the Chablis Fourchaume Climat covers an area of 4 kilometres. Unique in its geographical position across four communes (Chablis-Poinchy, Fontenay-près-Chablis, Maligny and La Chapelle-Vaupelteigne), this area is also singular because of its topography and its name, which has references to several legends. The term "Fourchaume" could refer to a lime kiln, a crossroads, but also to a "Men's Fork," in reference to gallows hangings.
One of the standard-bearing Climats of the Chablis appellation
The Chablis wine production area totals 79 cadastral sites and includes 40 climats, the 17 main ones of which can also be named "porte-drapeau" (standard-bearer). This singularity of the Chablis terroir allows wines from Climats neighbouring a Climat porte drapeau to bear either the name of the Climat of origin or that of the Climat porte drapeau of attachment.
Exclusively Chablis Premier Cru, Fourchaume is part of the standard-bearing Climats regrouping those of L'Homme Mort, Vaulorent, Côte de Fontenay and Vaupulent. The total surface area of the Climat de Chablis Fourchaume is 130 hectares.
Characteristics of the terroir and soils of Chablis Fourchaume
The characteristics of the terroir and soils of the Chablis appellation are unique. The north-facing slopes give the grapes optimum exposure throughout the day, resulting in a dry, mineral white wine typical of a wine-growing area with a humid continental climate.
Located at the western end of the Chablis vineyard, the Climat de Fourchaume is oriented west/south-west, favouring a gradual ripening of the grapes thanks to a longer period of sunshine. In addition, the vines are planted on a mosaic of soils composed of limestone dating from the Kimmeridgien era, light beige marl and pale yellow clay. While this diversity of soils advances the aromatic concentration of the grapes on the vine before the harvest, it also gives the wines from this Climat a rich and crystalline texture as well as a beautiful acidity whose freshness reveals delicious fruity notes.
Climate and sun exposure
Climate and sun exposure are essential elements in the making of a great Burgundy wine. The vineyards of Chablis Fourchaume benefit from optimal sunshine thanks to the hot, dry summers and their proximity to the Yonne River. The average annual temperature is around 10°C, which allows the grapes to ripen well in the autumn and to bud early the following spring. A sea breeze from the Gulf of Normandy pleasantly cools the hot summer days without altering the quality potential of the wines, while the location of the vines on the hillsides provides an ideal microclimate for these great Burgundian terroirs.
The style of Chablis Fourchaume wines
Made exclusively from Chardonnay, one of the leading grape varieties in Burgundy, Chablis Premier Cru Fourchaume wines are characterised by their minerality but also their subtle floral and stone fruit notes. Their freshness in the mouth comes from a high acidity combined with a richness that is not excessive. The scents are complex with hints of almond and lime. The finish of a Chablis Fourchaume wine is characterised by its persistence and aromatic expression. Thanks to their richness and structure, Chablis Fourchaume wines pair perfectly with elegant dishes such as grilled fish or mature cheeses.
Famous producers of Chablis Fourchaume appellation
The expression of great vineyards by La Chablisienne
As one of the most important producers of Chablis, La Chablisienne entices with its fresh, lively and precise Chablis Premier Cru Fourchaume wines.
The freshness of Domaine Billaud-Simon wines
An esteemed reference for Chablis wines, Domaine Billaud-Simon produces white wines that harmoniously combine balance, structure and aromatic richness.
The finesse and expression of great white wines by William Fèvre
The William Fèvre estate harmoniously expresses the identity of the great Chablis terroirs through exceptional wines.
Domaine Laroche, the subtle combination of minerality and elegance
Writing its history since the 9th century, Domaine Laroche produces great white wines that are precise, elegant and complex.
