Jurançon is an exclusively white wine appellation which concentrates on two of France’s most fascinating, complex, and underappreciated grapes, Petit and Gros Manseng. Together the two Mansengs form the foundation of Jurançon’s complete spectrum of dry, off-dry, and nobly sweet wines. The legendary Domaine Castéra organically and biodynamically farms steep terraced slopes to craft the full portfolio of classical Jurançon wines. Employing Gros Manseng (70%) and Petit Corbu, Domaine Castéra’s Sec (dry) casts a rich golden color from the glass followed by captivating aromas of ripe pear, apricot, honeydew melon, beeswax, and spicy ginger. Full, rich, and ample on the fore-palate, the mid-palate layers crisp melon and orchard fruit expressions amplified by a brilliant acid backbone, a gripping, resinous texture, and deep, loamy soil tones. Long, intense, and palpably dry, Domaine Castéra’s Sec finishes with hints of wildflower honey, pear skin, honeycomb, and a persistent stony soil signature. Pair this singular beauty now and over the coming decade with broiled black cod, grilled mackerel, rich bean and lentil soups, chicken topped with sautéed morels, and roast ham.
An August 2022 newsletter selection
