If I Could Buy Only One – January 18th Vintages Release

We asked our writers, “If you could buy only one wine from the January 18th release, which one would it be and why?”

Alain Geoffroy Vau Ligneau Chablis 1er Cru 2022, Burgundy, France
$40.15, EX-Cellars Wine Services
Sara d’Amato – Here’s a thoughtfully crafted Premier Cru Chablis, rich in complexity and engaging – all at a great price, making it a must-try. A refined, subtly leesy style that impresses with feathery acids and a distinctive mineral backbone. The palate offers a whisper of crème fraîche, layered with lemon oil, green apple and a touch of lanolin. Its texture strikes the perfect balance, with enough viscosity to complement its freshness. A standout example from the left bank Premier Cru of Vau-Ligneau.
David Lawrason – I am a real fan of Chablis, and have enjoyed the riper, more fruit driven 2022s of recent months. But this 2022 rings truer to me, more old school, with lower 12% alcohol, tighter acidity and more minerality. So, if its not a vintage thing it must be site and winemaking. It is a from a seldom seen 1er cru climat that was only planted in the 70s. But it is steep sloped above a small brook and based on classic limestone-based soils. This is tender crisp and almost brittle, but not austere – brimming with minerality, both in flavour and texture, along with lemon and green apple. The length is excellent to outstanding.

There are other ‘Only One’ picks this week that are currently only visible to our premium members. This complete article will be free and visible to all members 30 days after publication. We invite you to subscribe today to unlock our top picks and other Premium benefits.

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Use these quick links for access to all of our January 18th Top Picks in the New Release. Non-premium members can select from all release dates 30 days prior.
Lawrason’s Take – January 18th
Megha’s Picks – January 18th
Michael’s Mix – January 18th
Sara’s Selections – January 18th