L'Étoile 'L'Ensemblage' Domaine de Sainte Marie 2020

The Étoile 'L'Ensemblage' represents a charming expression and flagship of the Domaine de Sainte Marie. The denomination Étoile takes its name from the village of the same name in the small wine region of Jura and encompasses an area of just 75 hectares in total, a very low figure for a designation, making Étoile wines a true rarity, especially outside the regional boundaries. The French term "étoile" means "star" and seems to derive from the abundance of star-shaped fossils found within the vineyards of the appellation. Furthermore, the five hills surrounding the village of Étoile seem to form a five-pointed star.

'L'Ensemblage' Domaine de Sainte Marie Étoile is born from a blend of Savagnin (40%), Chardonnay (40%), and Poulsard (20%) grapes grown using sustainable practices on limestone-rich soils. After harvesting, the grapes are immediately transferred to the cellar and gently pressed before the alcoholic fermentation of the must in stainless steel tanks conducted by indigenous yeasts alone. Once the fermentation process is complete, the wine is aged in oak barrels for a period of about 10 months, during which time it gains complexity and softens its taste characteristics.

In the glass, L'Étoile Domaine de Sainte Marie 'L'Ensemblage' reveals a beautiful bright golden yellow color. The complex bouquet combines fruity notes of pear and peach with buttery aromas of brioche, as well as citrus hints of lemon and grapefruit. Light oxidative notes and a strong mineral stamp complete the aromatic profile. On the palate, it is powerful and full-bodied yet at the same time very fresh, with an energetic, dry, and savory finish.