L’Étoile Domaine de Montbourgeau 2018 2018

The smallest and second most mountainous wine region in France after the Savoie. It is known for its bucolic lanscapes, its obscure red and white grape varieties and the birthplace of the so called "Vin Jaune", or yellow wine, an oxydative, "sherry like" white wine aged 6 years in opened barrels that pairs perfectly with the local Comté cheese. Being the counterpart of Burgundy, on the other side of the Saône valley, Jura vineyards have a tormented geology and a more continental climate with cold winters and snow accumulation in altitude. The most favorable terroirs are located on hillsides between 150Ft and 500Ft above sea level. The local grape varieties are perfectly adapted to the poor limestone-clay soils of the Jura: the Poulsard (or Ploussard), a little tannic red grape variety at the origin of rosés and light reds; the Trousseau, which gives more colorful and structured red wines; Savagnin, a white grape variety at the origin of the famous yellow wine, Vin de Paille (straw wine) or Macvin (dessert wine). Pinot noir and Gamay are also present and often associated with Trousseau in the making of the reds. Another Burgundian grape variety, the Chardonnay expresses rich and nutty flavors. It contributes also to the making of the local sparkling wine known as Crémant du Jura. Enjoy these wine with aged cheeses, cured hams or creamy potatoes au gratin.