Petit Savagnin L’Essen’ciel, Domaine Désiré Petit

The Jura region of eastern France is fast becoming one of the country’s most exciting winemaking areas. It is here, in the commune of Grozon, that the domaine was established in 1932 by Désiré Petit who planted just under 1.5 hectares of vines on the Côte de Feule. Since then, the vineyard area has increased significantly to 27 hectares and the domaine is run by the third generation of the Petit family: Damien and Anne-Laure.

Made in a traditional fashion, the wine completed its fermentation in 600L oak barrels and underwent regular bâtonnage (stirring of the lees) through its first 2-3 months, and then each week until bottling. Regularly topped up to prevent oxidation and aged for 18 months in a closed demi-muid. Slightly feral and edgy, full but not oxidised, this is lively as hell and a fascinating insight to Jura Savagnin. With aromas of citrus oils and subtle notes from the wood it has matured in, this has minerality and a marked hazelnut character. Long and elegant, with a very slight hint of aniseed on the finish. A graceful and wild wine that really sings with rich seafood.