2016 Jean Macle Cotes du Jura Blanc

Region: Jura, France

Grape: Chardonnay, Savagnin

Culinary Suggestions: Comte Cheese, Clams/Mussels, Grilled Fish

Vineyard Practice: Organic

About

The Macle family started growing vines in Château-Chalon in 1850 and has been winemaking since the 1960s. 7th generation winemaker Laurent is currently working with his father Jean. Their cave is from the 16th century and their Château-Chalon is considered the Grand Cru of Jura. The liquid treasures of Domaine Macle are hard to come by. Even in France they are quite rare and the Domaine has not historically exported from Europe. The Château Chalons have all the power of great Vin Jaunes, but the extra finesse, elegance and staying power that this little Grand Cru of Jura gives. - Importer Note

Tasting Notes

The regular 2016 Côtes du Jura is a lot more expressive than the pure Chardonnay. This is a blend of Chardonnay and Savagnin that usually contains some declassified barrels from the Vin Jaune, and it somehow feels like a mini Vin Jaune, serious and balanced. It has some rancid notes, hints of diesel, aromatic herbs and some medicinal and chemical undertones, complex and different but in line with the notes you find in an aged Château Chalon. This is very tasty, dry and chalky and finishes long and with a salty twist.

94 points - Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate May 2021

Drink: 2020 - 2028