Arbois, Jura, France
Frédéric Lornet helms his family’s historic cellar and winery, located in a 13th Century Cistercian abbey in the grand cru Jura village of Montigny-lès-Arsures. Lornet’s gorgeous 2019 Chardonnay reflects a deep, resinous lemon-gold color followed by classic Jura Chardonnay expressions of lemon oil, toasted whole wheat bread, yellow apple skin, quince, and Comice pears. On the palate the wine pulses with juicy lemon fruit layered with complex suggestions of bee pollen, raw hazelnuts, orange zest, and chamomile flowers. Tart expressions of lemon marmalade transition the wine to its long, gripping, resinous finish that reprises notes of chamomile and hazelnuts alongside a deep undercurrent of clay terroir. This is superb Chardonnay that clearly expresses its Jura-ssique origins and a shining example of why the Jura is a primary target on many a wine geek’s radar. Enjoy this delicious and distinctive wine now and over the coming five years with chicken in cream sauces, mild sausages and charcuterie, Comté and Gruyère cheeses, light pork preparations, and rich vegetable soufflés.
A December 2021 newsletter selection
Special full case discount! Buy 12 bottles of this item and receive an additional 5% off.