Sometimes the history of a whole region can be encapsulated by special folks who come along once in a while. In the case of the beguiling wine region of Chablis, those people are the ones who created and developed the Domaines des Malandes. For three generations, the work of this domain has charted the history of Chablis wines perhaps more comprehensively than any other producer we have come across here at burgundywine.com.
Since 2018 it has been managed by Richard Rottiers and his sister Amandine. Does the surname sound familiar? To long-time readers of this website, it will make them think of a very different part of the Burgundy region, that of Beaujolais, where Richard worked for many years from 2007 onwards. There he gained experience in managing vineyards in that most romantic of Burgundy climats, Moulin A Vent. Nowadays, Richard is the MD and Amandine the head of marketing, sales and comms at their new venture in Chablis.
But to discover the origins of this domain we have to look back to 1949 in post-war Europe, when Richard and Amandine’s grandparents harvested the first grapes in their named-vineyard (climat) called “Fourchaume”. Chablis has always been the most difficult wine region in Burgundy to grow wine (click here to read our wine profile of Chablis and the other regions), and back in the 1940s this was especially so, because it pre-dated mechanisation and the frosts which afflict this northerly area were harder to predict and more damaging. But they pushed on and handed 7 hectares of vineyards to their daughter Lyne. It’s thanks to her that the wines from this quiet corner of France found their way to the tables of the USA, Europe and even Asia. She grew the winery and eventually handed the reigns to today’s current owners, Richard and Amandine. Today they have 29 hectares to play with, thanks to their industrious and visionary ancestors.
Their many and various vineyards – named plots known as climats in French – are testament to Burgundy’s unique focus on the terroir. Each plot has its own history, its own characteristics, and produces deeply characterful wines which can change almost yard-by-yard as you walk through the rolling fields.
4 Chablis Wines You Need to Try From This Unique Producer
Here are some of our favorite wines from Domaine Malandes and sold on burgundywine.com by Elden Selections:
- 1er Cru Fourchaume: Discover the wine everyone is raving about when it comes to Chablis wines… and for good reason. This Premier Cru wine is as close as you can get to a Grand Cru wine without the huge price and scarcity. These vines are an incredible 70 years old. 70! It offers fresh, deep fruits from the aged vines, with pear and peach flavors and floral notes. It’s rich but also citric, suave and has an incredibly long mineral finish.
- Chablis ‘Envers de Valmur’: This single-vineyard Chablis is produced from 60-year-old vines located on the southwest-facing Right Bank of the river at the back of the Grand Cru Vaudesir valley. This wine is vinified for six months in a blend of 70% stainless steel and 30% oak, followed by an additional six months in stainless steel to allow the flavors to meld. The result is a wine of great finesse that surpasses expectations for its appellation. It features floral notes and a burst of fresh lemon, showcasing its purity. There is a remarkable tension and freshness that provide structure to the body, with a long saline finish.
- 1er Cru Côte de Léchet: This 50-year-old vineyard on the Left Bank, with a southeast exposure, could be the epitome of Cote de Lechet. It showcases a strict, almost dusty minerality, (which is characteristic of what the locals or ‘Chablisiens’ prefer). The wine is vinified for 8 months in 70% stainless steel and then left to develop its for an additional 14 months. As a result, this is a lively example of pure minerality, with a hint of flintiness that the Lechet is renowned for. It concludes with a long, smoky finish accompanied by fruit notes.
- 1er Cru ‘Montmains’: The Montmains vintage is sourced from 60-year-old vines located on the Left Bank with a southeast exposure. It undergoes 8 months of vinification in stainless steel, followed by an additional 7 months to enhance its harmony. This wine is ripe and complex, full-bodied and generous, exhibiting fruit flavors from the initial attack through the mid-palate. The finish is rich and carries a hint of spice.
In 2019 the estate began to convert to organic ways of working; you can be sure that wines you drink today from this domaine have been produced with meticulous care and attention to nature and sustainability. They plow selectively here, with horses to aerate the soil gently and prolong the life of the already-old vines. They time their harvesting operations perfectly so that the grapes are in the best condition they can be for winemaking.
A New Way To Stay With Us in Burgundy
Nestled in the breathtaking scenery of Burgundy, our charming retreat at Domaine de Cromey invites wine lovers to experience life among the vines. Unwind in our luxurious accommodation with superb facilities, perfect for relaxing after a day out discovering local vineyards.
Why not experience the joy of wine tastings with us in our tasting room? You’ll discover Burgundy’s rich winemaking traditions and even meet friendly winemakers, like Richard and Amadine. Sample exceptional wines crafted from the region’s iconic Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, and hear first-hand from knowledgeable winemakers—many of whom we have known for years and who are deeply passionate about their craft. With celebrated wine appellations just a short drive away, guests can easily plan vineyard visits or enjoy local festivals celebrating Burgundy’s vibrant wine culture.
Did you know that you can now come and enjoy the fabulous luxury amongst the vines at Domaine de Cromey for 3 night-stays? You’ll get all of the superb service found on our week-long stays. Click here to send us your booking enquiry today. We can’t wait to say hello.