Chablis
The basics
Chablis is known for its flowery, crisp white wine. Made exclusively from chardonnay grapes, it isn’t quite as fruity as other white wines typically found in Burgundy. The area’s chillier temperatures stimulate the acidity of the grapes, which is further enhanced by the stainless steel tanks local winemakers use in place of the traditional oak barrels.
There are various vineyards and cellars open to visitors in Chablis, each worth a visit: the most popular one is William Fevre. Here wine aficionados can taste different Chablis wines by the glass and eat regional delicacies in the atmospheric setting of the village’s historic hospital, surrounded by 126 acres (51 hectares) of vineyards. Driving from winery to winery is a popular way to experience the area, but if you plan to drink, it’s best to hire a taxi or join a tour.
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Things to know before you go
- While wine is the main draw here, Chablis is equally worth visiting if you love old architecture.
- The minimum drinking age in France is 18, although teens with their parents won’t necessarily be denied wine.
- Wheelchair users may experience difficulty getting around Chablis and area wineries.
How to get there
There’s no railway station in Chablis; the closest is in Auxerre, about 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) away. If you’re coming by car, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Dijon to Chablis via the A38 and the A6; Paris takes closer to two hours via the A6.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Weather and wine will be your biggest considerations when visiting Chablis. Although it rarely drops to freezing in the area, temperatures can get pleasantly warm during the summer months. Harvest usually takes place in September or October, and visitors are welcome to come help pick grapes. Note that wineries commonly close from December through March.
Pontigny Abbey
History lovers rejoice: just outside of Chablis sits Pontigny Abbey. One of the oldest Cistercian sites still standing, it dates to AD 1114 and was originally an abbey; the monks who lived here are responsible for developing the area's wine industry. Most of the abbey was destroyed during the French Revolution, but the church managed to survive the ages.
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