Produced from a 2.55 hectare parcel (6.3 acres), the magnificent 2002 Chablis Les Preuses (domaine) has a complex nose of smoky slate and spices. Medium-bodied, deep, rich, and satin-textured, it reveals an inspiring character of outstanding depth, concentration, focus, and length. Loads of creamy seashells are intermingled with flint and pears in its detailed yet powerful core. Projected maturity: 2005-2014. While Bernard Hervet, who oversees both Bouchard and William Fevre, prefers the 2000 vintage in Chablis “for its minerality and austerity,” your author believes 2002 is the finest set of wines to have been produced at this estate/negociant firm in many years. Importer: Clicquot, Inc., New York, NY; tel (212) 888-7575