Navigate CMS with Chablis: A Sommelier’s Guide
The Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) offers a structured path for sommeliers, consisting of four levels: Introductory, Certified, Advanced, and Master. Each level requires a deeper understanding of various wine regions, including the renowned Chablis.
In this guide, we'll explore the knowledge required at each level, focusing on Chablis to illustrate the progression.
Introductory Level
At the Introductory level, sommeliers need to grasp the basic facts about Chablis:
Location: Chablis is located in the northernmost part of Burgundy, France.
Grape Variety: The primary grape variety in Chablis is Chardonnay.
Climate: Chablis has a cool climate, which contributes to its distinct acidity and minerality.
Key Producers: Knowing a few producers, such as Domaine William Fèvre and Domaine Laroche, can be advantageous.
Summary: For the Introductory level, understand where Chablis is, the grape variety grown there, its climate, and a couple of notable producers.
Certified Level
For the Certified level, sommeliers need a more detailed understanding of Chablis:
Soil Types: The region is characterized by Kimmeridgian and Portlandian soils, which contribute to the unique terroir.
AOC Levels: Familiarize yourself with the different AOC levels—Petit Chablis, Chablis, Chablis Premier Cru, and Chablis Grand Cru.
Alcohol Levels: Understand the typical alcohol levels in Chablis wines, usually around 12-13%.
Premier and Grand Cru: Be aware of the Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards and their distinctions.
Producers: Know key producers and their contributions to the Chablis region.
Summary: For the Certified level, delve into soil types, AOC levels, alcohol levels, and become familiar with Premier and Grand Cru vineyards and notable producers.
Advanced Level
At the Advanced level, sommeliers need to master detailed aspects of Chablis:
Grand Cru Vineyards: Be able to name all seven Grand Cru vineyards: Blanchot, Bougros, Les Clos, Grenouilles, Les Preuses, Valmur, and Vaudésir.
Premier Cru Vineyards: Know several famous Premier Cru vineyards, such as Montée de Tonnerre and Fourchaume.
Top Producers: Identify top producers and their specific regions within Chablis, understanding their unique styles and contributions.
Summary: For the Advanced level, memorize all Grand Cru vineyards, recognize several Premier Cru vineyards, and know the top producers and their regions.
Master Level
At the Master level, sommeliers are expected to have exhaustive knowledge of Chablis:
Comprehensive Coverage: Cover all aspects of Chablis, including detailed knowledge of Premier Cru and Grand Cru vineyards.
Top Producers and Regions: Be able to discuss top producers and their specific vineyards in detail.
Lieux-Dits: Understand and name several lieux-dits (specific named plots within Premier Cru vineyards).
Summary: For the Master level, combine all previous knowledge and add detailed information about lieux-dits and specific vineyard plots within Premier Cru vineyards.
Conclusion
Understanding Chablis at each level of the CMS courses requires progressively deeper knowledge. Starting from the basics at the Introductory level and advancing to comprehensive details at the Master level, each step builds on the previous one. By mastering these details, sommeliers can enhance their expertise and appreciation of Chablis, making their journey through the CMS levels both educational and enjoyable.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Chablis Grand Cru vineyards make up less than 1% of the region's total production but are considered some of the finest white wines in the world?
