This is my first entry into the “blogosphere.”  Uncertain regarding the real meaning of the relatively new concept of “blog” as a noun or a verb, I beg the indulgence of those who are more informed.

I’ve just returned from a most amazing sojourn that took 10 colleagues and me through an intense exposure to the fantastic wines of the Cotes du Rhone, Beaujolais, Burgundy, and Chablis (also technically Burgundy.)  Each stop along the way is worthy of a long essay describing the place, the wonderful people, the delicious food, and of course, the fabulous wines.  For the sake of brevity and precise focus, I have decided to share my impression of one single wine, Petite Chablis.

Monsieur Durup, owner, winemaker, raconteur, and Burgundy historian extraordinaire met us at the palatial Château Maligny, in Cablis.  After some exploration of the estate that features a castle (under restoration) complete with even a moat, Durup invited us into a museum-like tasting room.  Our first taste, followed by many others, was the Petite Chablis.  My expectations for this wine were immediately exceeded. Light straw color with golden hues made the wine visually intriguing.  The bouquet carried notes of flint, citrus and white flowers. This wine was alive with vibrant acidity, distinct mineral notes, floral overtones and no oak.   All agreed the wine was “quite pleasant.”

When our guide announced the estimated retail price for this wine of approximately $15.00 U.S., I thought to myself, “This is something my guests deserve.”  ABC Fine Wine & Spirits does not offer this selection and I believe it would be a terrific addition to our inventory.  Maligny’s Petite Chablis is an affordable introduction to the extraordinary wines of this appellation and would serve as a bridge wine for our curious guests.

Our splendid evening in Chablis continued with a vertical tasting of Maligny wines—each one getting better than the one before—impressive, to say the least.  We finished the evening with a most memorable dinner hosted by Monsieur & Madame Durup.  From the starter course of chilled salmon prepared three ways to the dessert of warm chocolate cake with a molten dark chocolate filling, every morsel was delicious.  Here’s a toast to Monsieur and Madame Durup, “A Votre Sante!”

Don Couvillion, wine consultant ABC Fine Wine & Spirits on Gandy Blvd in Tampa