Was 2013 a good year for Chablis?

Answered by Charles Pate

The 2013 vintage in Chablis had its challenges due to the unpredictable weather in the spring. This had a direct impact on the yields of the grapes. The low volumes resulted in less being produced compared to other vintages. However, despite these difficulties, the wines from 2013 have proven to be charming and expressive.

In my experience as a sommelier, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate wines from the 2013 vintage in Chablis. While the quantities may have been limited, the quality of the wines was not compromised. The low yields actually contributed to better concentration of flavors and intensity in the wines. There was a good balance between acidity and fruitiness, which is a characteristic of Chablis wines.

One of the reasons why the wines from the 2013 vintage in Chablis turned out well is due to the skills and expertise of the winemakers. They were able to adapt to the challenging weather conditions and make the most out of the grapes that were available. This is a testament to their dedication and passion for producing high-quality wines.

When tasting the 2013 Chablis wines, I noticed that they had a lively and fresh character. The acidity was well-integrated and provided a nice backbone to the wines. The fruit flavors were vibrant and expressive, with notes of citrus, green apple, and pear. There was also a subtle mineral undertone, which is a hallmark of Chablis wines.

While the 2013 vintage in Chablis may not have been as abundant as other years, it still produced wines of great quality and character. The low volumes resulted in concentrated and expressive flavors, making these wines a delight to drink. If you come across a bottle of 2013 Chablis, I would highly recommend giving it a try.