Pure Chablistikichris

An expertly curated drinking session featuring Chablis wines paired with a dynamic range of dishes created by a trio of locally celebrated supper club hosts and presented at the swank digs of Studio by Andaz proved a delightful and delicious way to experience a taste of this most expressive of white wines.

My invitation to this press-only affair came via wine writer – and sommelier for the occasion – Douglas Blyde. So I knew at the very least an RSVP would lead to the chance to sip a quality selection of wines. Further, previous encounters with Chablis – Burgundy’s famously refreshing Chardonnays – had me resolute in understanding these whites are among my favourite quaffs. Nothing happened during the dinner to shake that belief. Indeed, I headed home with a mild and merry buzz, more aware of what makes a Chablis such an excellent – and much more versatile that I’d thought – wine. I was sated by a fine meal as well.

Scandi-inspired canapés by Nordish, a fresh but fulsome with flavour Petit Chablis (Pas Si Petit, 2014, La Chablisienne) kicked things off with great promise. A summer vegetable salad with roasted radishes, brown butter dressing, pan-fried whiting and tempura samphire compliments of Pickled Plates matched with a rich Alain Geoffroy 2014 kept the palate pleased. And a main course of soy and miso-glazed pork chop on the bone with spring onion rice, Japanese raw slaw, rice vinegar and chilli dressing from A Little Lusciousness rocked with confidence and went down nicely with a glass (or two) of citrus and slightly mineral La Boissonneuse 2014 from Burgundy’s biodynamic pioneer Julien Brocard.

Rosie Llewellyn of A Little Lusciousness shares the main course

Dinner wound down with a board of “England v France” unpasteurized cheeses alongside a bevy of Chablis notables. I went gaga for pretty much all of them …

Domaine William Fevre, Vaulorent, Premier Cru 2012
Jean Paul et Benoit Valmur Grand Cru 2012
Clotilde Davenne Les Preuses Grand Cru 2008
Domaine Laroche Les Blanchots Grand Cru 2007

… Ah!

For more about the wines, host, supper clubs, and venue go to: