# Côtes du Jura Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** Maison Rijckaert
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Jura, France
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €195
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, blossom, lemon zest, pear, hazelnut, toasted almond, butter, vanilla, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

The Maison Rijckaert Côtes du Jura Chardonnay 2022 is a 100% Chardonnay from the Jura region of France. Founded in 1998 by Jean Rijckaert and now managed by Florent Rouve, the domaine is committed to low yields, hand-harvesting, natural yeasts, and extended aging in older oak barrels. The grapes are sourced from the Côtes du Jura appellation, where the soils are a mix of limestone and clay, contributing to the wine's minerality. The 2022 vintage is characterized by its freshness and balance.

## Interesting facts

- Founded by a Belgian with a passion for Burgundy.
- Vineyards span both Burgundy and Jura.
- Focus on minimal intervention winemaking.
- Aged for up to 22 months in oak.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its mineral notes complement the subtle flavors of freshwater fish and poultry. The nutty undertones can echo toasted elements in dishes.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Côtes du Jura Chardonnay involves alcoholic and malolactic fermentation, often utilizing indigenous yeasts. The wine is then aged for an extended period, typically 18 to 22 months, in oak barrels, with a focus on using older barrels. Some wines undergo lees aging with stirring. The grapes are hand-harvested, and sustainable farming methods are employed. The overall approach emphasizes minimal intervention to express the unique terroir.