Chablis

Click for town centre map

One of the most famous white wines in the world comes from this area in the north west of Burgundy. Monks from the Abbey of Pontigny were the first to plant Chardonnay grapes here on the slopes surrounding the River Serein realising that the microclimate in this area with its cold spring was essential for the dry, honey-scented flavour of the wine. The wines fall into four appellations: Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru and Grand Cru.

There is evidence of the town’s lasting prosperity all around. The wine domains, the boutiques and specialist shops, the luxurious hotels and restaurants all herald the visitor. Visit Domaine Michel Laroche in Rue Auxerre or their new venture, the Laroche wine bar, boutique hotel, restaurant and shop, the Hotel du Vieux Moulin, 18 Rue des Moulins, to taste some of the best of local wines. Laroche are offering a one day wine course, with lunch included.

Another cellar worth visiting is William Fevre at 14 Rue Jules Rathier, what used to be the old Chablis hospital. His restaurant is next door where you can taste wines by the glass with each regional dish. There is also a bistro-wine bar for less formal meals.

The giftshop Au Cep Gourmand on Rue Auxerroise is charming, and Les Jardins Européens, a photographer’s delight.

Market Day

Sunday morning

Bed and breakfast

• Carpe Diem, Massangis

hotels

• Au Relais de la Belle Etoile ** in the centre of Chablis

• Hostellerie des Clos, Chablis
• Hotel du Vieux Moulin
  

holiday homes

• Chateau de Percey, Percy sleeps 10 and 4
• Chablis, sleeps 6, Ref: T89041

Places to visit

• Noyers, a medieval village
• Château d’Ancy-le-Franc
• Auxerre

Property

English-speaking estate agent with 7 offices in Burgundy www.burgundy4u.com

Getting to and from Chablis
Chablis is 190 km from Paris, the nearest airport
By train:
TER to Laroche Migennes
By bus:
Services to outlying villages and towns