Domaine Grand : Vin Jaune Côtes du Jura 2017

Tasting characteristics and advice for the Vin Jaune Côtes du Jura 2017 from Domaine Grand

Tasting

Appearance

The wine displays a deep, intense yellow hue, enhanced by signature golden highlights that speak to the gradual, controlled oxidation that occurred during its long ageing under a veil of yeast.

Nose

The aromatic bouquet reveals extraordinary complexity, dominated by notes of fresh walnut with a subtly buttery character. Secondary aromas of mild curry, saffron, toasted almond and dried lemon zest gradually emerge. With further aeration, more discreet nuances of ginger, exotic spices, baked apple, hazelnut and gunflint can be perceived.

Palate

A fresh attack immediately marks the palate with a clear mineral impression and a distinctive metallic acidity. The palate unfolds with harmony and precision, revealing ample creaminess without any excessive heaviness. The long finish lingers remarkably, gradually evolving from walnut notes toward more earthy tones, with a light, characteristic salinity that brings elegance and sophistication.

Food and wine pairings

This Vin Jaune pairs perfectly with aged Comté, Morbier, or chicken with morels and cream. For bolder combinations, it beautifully accompanies pan-seared foie gras, scallop carpaccio, or a monkfish curry. Uncooked pressed cheeses also make excellent partners.

Serving and cellaring

The Vin Jaune Côtes du Jura 2017 should be served between 14 and 17°C. It is recommended to open the bottle two to three hours before tasting to allow the wine to fully release its aromatic expression. This wine has exceptional ageing potential extending well beyond several decades.

A Vin Jaune from Côtes du Jura expressing the Jura excellence of Domaine Grand

The estate

Established in 1692 in Passenans in the Jura, Domaine Grand embodies several generations of family heritage. Since 2015, Emmanuel Grand and Nathalie Morin have been leading the estate, certified organic since 2021. Their bold decision to reduce the cultivated area in order to prioritize quality earned them the “Winegrowers of the Year” title from the Guide Hachette 2020. The estate reflects an innovative vision combining outstanding quality with environmental sustainability.

The vineyard

The Vin Jaune Côtes du Jura 2017 comes from parcels planted on the appellation’s hallmark grey marls. These complex clay-limestone terroirs, farmed organically, benefit from manual hoe work that preserves soil structure. Old vines, deeply rooted in these mineral substrates, enable Savagnin to express rare complexity and directly translate the terroir’s geological sophistication.

The vintage

The 2017 vintage proved exceptional for the Jura vineyards. Despite April frosts affecting around 50% of the region’s production, Domaine Grand benefited from the strategic location of its parcels. An exceptionally hot, dry summer allowed maximum concentration in the Savagnin grapes without excessive water stress, creating ideal conditions for producing a Vin Jaune defined by remarkable ripeness and balanced acidity, essential for ageing under a veil of yeast.

Winemaking and ageing

After classic fermentation in stainless-steel tanks, the Vin Jaune Côtes du Jura 2017 was transferred to old oak barrels for ageing under a veil of yeast for six years and three months. During this period, a veil of natural yeasts developed on the wine’s surface, creating gradual, controlled oxidation. Around 40% of the initial volume evaporated naturally, concentrating aromas and amplifying the intensity of the finished wine. The wine is bottled in the traditional 62-centiliter clavelin.

Grape variety

100% Savagnin