Domaine des Marnes Blanches - Vin Jaune 2018
The 2018 Vin Jaune from Domaine des Marnes Blanches embodies the power and finesse of Savagnin aged under a veil on the marls of the South Revermont Lias. Its deep, luminous golden color heralds a wine of breadth and great aromatic concentration. The nose unfolds with intense notes of fresh walnut, almond, mild curry, and spices, mingled with hints of candied citrus and dried fruits. Nuances of dried morel, hazelnut, and light roasting add an additional layer of complexity. The oxidative signature remains perfectly controlled, giving an impression of relief and depth rather than raw power. Even from the simple nose, one can perceive the promise of a wine built for the long term. It is an exemplary expression of the Vin Jaune style, both distinctive and highly precise.
On the palate, the 2018 shows itself ample, dry, and structured, supported by concentrated matter balanced by crystalline acidity. The attack is straightforward, then the wine gradually broadens, coating the palate with flavors of walnut, fine spices, curry, candied citrus, and nuts. The salinity and a noble bitterness of orange zest and candied lemon structure the mid-palate, bringing energy and tension. The aging of over six years under a veil in barrels, without topping up, has shaped a deep, almost vibrant texture while maintaining great purity of line. The finish is very long, persistent, marked by spices, walnut, and a saline return that calls for food. With every sip, one feels the patience and precision of the work carried out in the cellar. It is a Vin Jaune already fascinating today but clearly built to defy the years.
As much a wine for meditation as for gastronomy, the 2018 Vin Jaune from Marnes Blanches pairs beautifully with aged Comté, a pullet or free-range poultry with morels, a creamy mushroom risotto, or cuisine seasoned with mild spices. It can also accompany bolder dishes, such as cuisine inspired by moderately spiced Indian or Asian recipes, where its notes of curry and citrus find a natural echo. Served around 14 to 15 °C, it unfolds its full aromatic complexity without losing its tension. Its aging potential is considerable, promising over the decades additional nuances of dry honey, beeswax, exotic spices, and dried fruits. It is a great Jura wine, with a strong identity, summarizing the philosophy of the estate: purity, precision in aging, and absolute respect for the terroir. A bottle for discerning enthusiasts as well as those wishing to discover one of the most singular styles of the French vineyard.
Grape variety: Savagnin
