Cotes du Jura 'Joli Grain' Domaine Wicky 2020

The 'Joli Grain' Cotes du Jura from Domaine Wicky is an authentic and genuine expression of Chardonnay from the Jura region, a small wine region in eastern France that has gained prominence in modern times for the extraordinary quality of its wines. Leading Domaine Wicky are the spouses Gilles and Christelle Wicky, who founded their own winery in 2003 in the municipality of Sainte-Agnès, located on the southern slope of the Jura. With the 'Joli Grin', the couple interprets Chardonnay, the second most common variety in the region, in the ouille style, a method of processing that differs from the oxidative style of the more traditional whites of the Jura.

The Cotes du Jura Domaine Wicky 'Joli Grain' originates solely from Chardonnay grapes grown according to the principles of certified organic farming on soils composed of blue-gray marls rich in gypsum. The vines are approximately 50 years old, and once mature, the clusters are entirely hand-harvested. This is followed by gentle pressing and spontaneous alcoholic fermentation of the must in stainless steel tanks by action of only native yeasts. The subsequent aging phase lasts for 12 months and takes place in old wooden barrels with continuous topping-up, in order to avoid the occurrence of early oxidative phenomena. The final bottling is carried out without prior clarification and filtration and without any addition of sulfites.

Visually, the Cotes du Jura 'Joli Grain' from Domaine Wicky displays an intense straw yellow hue with brilliant golden nuances. The aromas range from notes of green pear, lime, wisteria, and hawthorn, with distinctive mineral sensations of smoke, salt, and flint in the background. On the palate, it is complex, straightforward, and elegant, with a fresh and balanced progression resting on saline and floral undertones consistent with the olfactory profile.