The 2024 Chablis “Forêts” from Domaine Louis Michel is very, very strong in this vintage. The wine is absolutely beautiful on the nose, hopping from the glass in a classic blend of pear, lemon, beeswax, a complex base of chalky soil tones, white lilies and a topnote of anise. On the palate the wine is deep, full-bodied, focused and complex, with a succulent core of pure fruit, great mineral undertow and grip, a lovely spine of acidity and great backend precision on the impeccably balanced, complex and vibrant finish. Great juice.
93+ points, John Gilman, View From The Cellar (Feb 2026)
A slightly ripe nose is aromatically similar to the Montmains but with the interesting addition of a whiff of orange peel. There is better density and power to the bigger-bodied and vibrant flavors that flash a subtle minerality on the clean, dry and lingering finish that is also youthfully austere but noticeably more complex. Lovely.
90-92 points, Allen Meadows, Burghound (Oct 2025)
Aromas of orange oil, white flowers and a touch of smoky reduction introduce Guillaume Michel’s 2024 Chablis 1er Cru Forêts, a medium- to full-bodied, textural and demonstrative wine that is elegantly muscular and lively, underpinned by mouthwatering acidity and concluding with a long, saline finish. It has turned out nicely in the context of the vintage.
89-91 points, Kristaps Karklins, Wine Advocate (Jan 2026)
Mid lemon yellow. Less tight than Montmains, with a little more flesh on the bones. Especially on the palate and the finish tingles very agreeably as the stones come into focus. There’s a lean and limey backbone. Drink from 2028-2031.
89-91 points, Jasper Morris, Inside Burgundy (Dec 2025)
The 2024 Chablis Forêts 1er Cru has a touch more intensity and presence than the Montmains at the moment. The palate is well balanced with a fine bead of acidity. It's not complex, but tensile with a prickle of spice on the finish. Drink this over the next four to six years.
88-90 points, Neal Martin, Vinous (Jul 2025)