2014 Domaine de la Tournelle, Poulsard “L’ Uva Arbosianna” Arbois, Cotes du Jura, France.
Evelyne and Pascal Clairet’s Domaine de la Tournelle is one of the rising stars in the Jura and the wines are very much in the style of Puffeney and Gahier, and the latest set of wines will not disappoint especially this unbelievably light/pale Poulsard. The 2014 Poulsard L’ Uva Arbosianna starts with a delicate hue, with much less pigment that your average Rose, but full of flavor, spice and sublime delicacy with wild strawberries, dusty lavender, rose oil and cracked peppercorns as well as tart cherry and plum along with light tea notes, candied orange peel and red peach. With air a fuller feel in the mouth unfolds with fine tannins, smooth acidity and earthy tones. There is a stone and mineral element as well, though still hidden mostly by the youth and freshness of this Poulsard, overall this is a interesting and pure expression of varietal and place, it is worth checking this classic Jura red out. Poulsard is a sommelier wine, sometimes difficult to understand or enjoy by the general public and it hasn’t quite got the stylish charms of Trousseau, it’s more desirable Jura cousin, but it still is a fun experience and Domaine de la Tournelle make a very intriguing and tasty version, drink this one over the next 3 to 5 years, and be sure to look for Domaine de la Tournelle’s powerful dry white Savagnin that can age decades like Riesling or old vine Melon in Muscadet!
($30 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive
