Presentation
Established since 1887, the Mothe family specialized their estate in Chardonnay from the 1950s. Today, Jean-Louis, Thierry, and Vincent Mothe cultivate 55 hectares, with an approach centered on the purity and mineral expression of Chablis terroirs. Fermentations are done in thermo-regulated stainless steel tanks, guaranteeing lively, tense whites with notes of flint and candied lemon. The estate's uniqueness: Family expertise dedicated exclusively to Chardonnay, with recognized vinification precision.
Location
The Chablis parcels of Domaine Thierry Mothe are located around the village of Fontenay-près-Chablis, in northern Burgundy, on the right bank of the Serein River. The vineyards are planted on well-exposed slopes, mostly facing south and southeast, benefiting from ample sunlight and natural ventilation. These conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, preserving freshness and aromatics. The parcels are spread over several lieux-dits, offering a variety of expressions that contribute to a balanced and authentic representation of classic Chablis style.
Terroir
The terroir is made up of the distinctive Kimmeridgian limestone, rich in marine fossils and marl. This soil type is key to the hallmark minerality found in Chablis wines. Well-drained and shallow, the soils encourage deep rooting, resulting in wines that are structured, vibrant and elegant. The blend of clay and limestone imparts roundness and fresh acidity, creating wines with energy, precision and a lingering mineral finish. The result is a complex and pure Chardonnay that reflects the identity of its terroir with clarity.
In the vineyard
The vines are cultivated using sustainable, reasoned viticulture with close monitoring of each growing season. Mechanical soil work, controlled grass cover and limited treatments are employed to preserve the natural balance of the vineyard. The domain focuses on low yields and high-quality grapes, using environmentally conscious practices to protect the soil and biodiversity. This careful vineyard management supports healthy fruit and expressive wines that reflect both terroir and vintage.
Harvest
Harvesting is done mechanically at peak ripeness to ensure freshness and aromatic integrity. Grapes are quickly transported to the winery and gently pressed in whole clusters. The juice is cold-settled to clarify it before fermentation. This gentle and precise handling allows for the production of clean, expressive musts that retain the purity and character of the fruit. The timing of the harvest is key to achieving a balanced wine with tension and maturity.
Winemaking
Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the freshness and varietal character of Chardonnay. Fermentation is slow and steady, allowing delicate aromas and fine structure to develop.
Ageing
Ageing lasts about 8 to 10 months on fine lees in stainless steel tanks, with no oak used, to maintain purity and crispness. This careful vinification results in a clean, precise, and elegant Chablis, ready to enjoy young but with short to mid-term cellaring potential.
Varietal
Chardonnay : 100%
Specifications
Age of vines : 5 à 50 years old
Serving
10 to 12°C
Ageing potential
3 to 5 years
Tasting
This Chablis from Domaine Thierry Mothe displays a brilliant pale hue with green highlights. The nose is precise and elegant, revealing aromas of lemon zest, green apple, and white flowers. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and linear, driven by a sharp minerality characteristic of its clay-limestone soils. The texture is focused and crisp, with a long, saline finish that reflects the finesse and purity of Chardonnay from Chablis.
Food pairings
Perfect as an aperitif, it pairs beautifully with seafood, oysters, and grilled fish. It also complements more refined dishes such as sea bass ceviche, pan-seared scallops, or chicken in a lemon cream sauce. Its chiselled profile enhances fresh cheeses and pairs especially well with a matured Crottin de Chavignol.