Domaine des Carlines “La Vouivre”
CÔTES DU JURA, FRANCE | 2020
In 2016 I was lucky enough to explore the Jura Valley wine region which is a stunning part of the world that felt like a journey back to medieval times. Thanks to friends in Switzerland offering to drive, my travel companion and I ventured into France enjoying warm raclette and mussels meunière while basking in the Jura mountains' breathtaking views and indulging in regional wines. Shopping was also on the docket, so going from the very strong Swiss franc to the more approachable Euro was a relief!
Domaine Des Carlines embodies the heart of Côtes du Jura which is nestled within these inimitable mountains. Established in 2015 by partners Patrick and Sophie Ligeron, Domaine des Carlines in Ménétru-Le-Vignoble thrives on an 11-hectare vineyard (3 of which are located in the unofficial Grand Cru of Château Chalon). La Vouivre is a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% of Jura’s indigenous varietal Savagnin. It undergoes natural fermentation and matures in used 225 liter Burgundy oak barrels resulting in a wine that beautifully captures Jura’s winemaking traditions.
La Vouivre is crafted through meticulous harvesting and a lengthy maturation process offering a balanced minerality and a uniquely complex flavor profile. A small portion of the wine undergoes a process known as sous voile, trapping the juice under a layer of yeast ultimately changing the flavors of the wine. This technique (more popularly known as 'flor' in the Jerez region of Spain) contributes to its distinctive character. As a result, its warm yellow hues reveal meyer lemon, apple cider, and yelowpear aromas intertwined with delicate spice undertones like candied ginger and spiced walnut. This is a testament not just to representing expressive “Jura” flavors, but also to the Ligeron family's commitment to preserving Jura's winemaking legacy. Though this is not a fully oxidative wine like most may expect from Jura, you still get whispers of what makes these wines so unique and wonderful for food pairings.
This winter white is ideal for Chicago's coldest month of the year and pairs exquisitely with lemon-splashed fried fish, braised white meats in creamy béchamel, or tempered cheeses like Comté or that wonderfully stinky Raclette. For an exceptional dining affair, try it with fried sweetbreads glazed with sweet spices, enhancing the wine's rich and multifaceted flavors.