Le Clos des Grives Côtes du Jura 'Pinot Noir Bec' 2018
STORY
Though it’s always exciting to pick up a talented new producer regardless of region, finding new blood in one of France’s smallest and most popular is especially gratifying. This is why we are particularly eager to present to you our newest Jura grower, Le Clos des Grives. The estate has a long history in the region, dating back to its founding in 1968, at which point they gained organic certification, the first estate in the region to do so. Despite this, in recent years they have flown under the radar and stayed mostly out of international markets. That is over as we prepare to present these beautiful organic wines to you as one of the only retailers selling the wines in the United States.
HOW TO
The estate’s pure Jura Pinot Noir ‘A Bec’ is one of the most clear and captivating expressions from the region we’ve tasted since we first brought in Marquis d’Angerville’s spectacular Domaine du Pélican years ago. As with the best Jura Pinots, ‘A Bec’ calls to mind the very best expressions of Burgundian Pinot with its enticing minerality, gripping acidity, and notes of dusty cherries. And yet, the wine is unmistakably from the Jura and not Burgundy, with a certain nonchalance and joy that you just can’t find in Burgundy. As such this beauty is perfect for springtime drinking, and will be at its best with a slight chill, opened an hour or so before drinking, and paired with unpretentious fare. We’d recommend something as simple as burgers.
Le Clos des Grives Côtes du Jura Chardonnay 'Musicienne' 2017
STORY
Though Jurassic reds have never been better, or more fashionable, the region’s whites have always been the bread and butter. And, historically, the best and most famous wines from the region amounted to some of the most radical and unique made in all of France. Le Clos des Grives’ iteration of Côtes du Jura Chardonnay ‘Musicienne’ is a product of the ‘ouillé’, or topped off, style of Jura white wines. Whereas some of the region’s more prominent whites are made ‘sous voile’ in an intentionally oxidative style, as the region has gained more renown, the freshness-forward ouillé style has become more and more popular.
HOW TO
‘La Musicienne’ is sourced from 35 year old vines the Côtes du Jura appellation. The dominant soil type in the vineyard is limestone, which is crucial for the development of complex, mineral-driven Chardonnay. In the cellar, the wine is fermented naturally and aged in a mixture of old oak barrels and stainless steel tank. Both vessels are topped off regularly to ensure freshness. The resulting wine is fresh, high in acid, and generous, with notes of quince, salty minerals, and granny smith apple. It is at home with nearly any style of cheese, young and old. For a truly classic pairing, though, you should grab a slice of Comté, some crusty bread, and enjoy.
