# Cuvée Jeanraude

- **Producer:** Domaine Merlin François
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** 100% Viognier
- **Region:** Rhône, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Average price:** €40
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** rose-petal jam, white peach, raspberry perfume, honey

## About this wine

Cuvée Jeanraude by Domaine Merlin François is a distinguished white wine from the Condrieu appellation in the Northern Rhône Valley, France. Produced exclusively from 100% Viognier, this wine is a testament to the unique terroir of its origin. The grapes are sourced from the 'Jeanraude' plot, known for its proximity to the prestigious Château-Grillet, and from the oldest vines of the 'Poncin' plot, both situated on blue-grey granite slopes. François Merlin, a first-generation winemaker who transitioned from agricultural studies and gained experience under René Rostaing, established Domaine Merlin François in 1989. His winemaking philosophy centers on expressing the pure, dense fruit character of the Viognier grape, with a reduced emphasis on new oak. The Cuvée Jeanraude is considered the domaine's fuller and more age-worthy expression, designed to be cellared for a few years. The 2017 vintage, for example, was recognized for its aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- François Merlin is a rare first-generation winemaker in the esteemed Northern Rhône.
- The 'Jeanraude' vineyard plot borders the iconic Château-Grillet.
- Merlin prefers minimal oak influence, stating 'I don't like wood'.
- The domaine is small, managed with meticulous vineyard work.

## Food pairing

The wine's aromatic complexity and medium-plus body pair well with richer poultry and pork dishes. Its inherent freshness and subtle acidity can cut through creamy sauces and balance the richness of butter or oil-based preparations. Aromatic elements in the food can echo the floral and fruity notes of the Viognier.

## Wine making process

The production of Cuvée Jeanraude by Domaine Merlin François involves careful selection of grapes from the 'Jeanraude' and old-vine 'Poncin' plots, situated on granite slopes. Winemaker François Merlin prioritizes expressing the pure, dense fruit of the 100% Viognier grapes. He has significantly reduced his use of new oak, preferring to age the wine in a combination of 80% aged oak and 20% steel containers. This method aims to balance the wine's richness and potential for aging with a vibrant freshness. The domaine's philosophy emphasizes meticulous vineyard work, with vines tended by hand out of respect for nature, reflecting a commitment to authentic expression of the Condrieu terroir.