# Arbois Trousseau Vignes aux Ânes (2024)

- **Producer:** Domaine Maire & Fils
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Trousseau
- **Region:** Jura, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–15 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, strawberry, plum, black pepper, cedar, vanilla

## About this wine

Domaine Maire & Fils traces its Jura winegrowing heritage back to 1632, expanding significantly under Henri Maire during the 20th century. Today, the estate spans roughly 240 hectares across key Jura appellations. The Vignes aux Ânes (Vines of the Donkeys) cuvée originates from a 4.96-hectare single parcel located southwest of Arbois village. Planted on light, gravelly marl soils over limestone scree, this plot offers optimal heat retention for the late-ripening native Trousseau grape.

## Interesting facts

- The parcel name 'Vignes aux Ânes' translates to 'Vines of the Donkeys', recalling historic donkey-worked vineyard terraces.
- Domaine Maire & Fils maintains a continuous winegrowing legacy in Jura dating back to 1632.
- Severe weather and extreme drought in 2024 reduced estate yields by up to 70%.

## Food pairing

Trousseau's bright acidity, medium-light body, and subtle peppery spice make it ideal for savory cured meats, pork, and game birds. The wine's fresh fruit profile cuts through pork fats and complements semi-hard regional cheeses without overpowering them.

## Wine making process

Grapes are hand-harvested with sorting table selection followed by a 12-day temperature-controlled maceration in stainless steel vats. Both regular pump-overs (remontages) and punch-downs (pigeages) take place during fermentation. Following pressing, the juice undergoes malolactic fermentation on fine lees. Maturation is conducted 25% in oak barrels and 75% in stainless steel tanks to integrate structure while preserving primary fruit vibrancy, followed by light filtration prior to bottling.