FEATURES
Frédéric Lornet's Arbois Vin Jaune from 1988 hails from the Jura region, renowned for its unique Savagnin grape and distinctive winemaking traditions. This particular wine undergoes a fascinating and very specific aging process: it spends 6 years and 3 months in 228-litre oak barrels without being topped up, allowing a veil of yeasts (known as 'flor') to develop on the surface. This 'sous voile' aging protects the wine while imparting its characteristic nutty and spicy profile. 【Rare and sought-after wine, aged for 6 years and 3 months under a veil of yeasts (sous voile)】.
The nose is powerful, revealing intense aromas of green walnut and curry. Expect a complex bouquet of nutty notes (walnut, almond), hints of honey, saline, and minerals, alongside earthy chanterelle mushroom, dried fruit, and a toasty finish. On the palate, it is ample and full-bodied, with excellent length and a beautiful balance between its inherent power and refreshing acidity. It presents an oxidative, briny, and bone-dry character.
Food Pairing: This unique Vin Jaune is a superb match for regional Jura cuisine, especially dishes cooked with Vin Jaune itself, such as trout with Vin Jaune and morels, or creamy dishes with morels. It also pairs wonderfully with local cheeses like Comté and Morbier, spicy exotic cuisine, dried fruits, walnuts, and hazelnuts. Mature and hard cheeses like Manchego and Parmesan are also excellent companions.
Event Fit: A distinctive choice for connoisseurs eager to explore traditional and rare French wines. It's excellent for a dedicated cheese tasting, a special dinner featuring regional Jura cuisine, or as a captivating conversation starter for those who appreciate oxidative wine styles.
Serving Advice: The 1988 Frédéric Lornet Arbois Vin Jaune, being a Vin Jaune, is inherently built for longevity due to its unique oxidative aging process. This style of wine is known for its incredible ability to age gracefully, developing complex nutty and spicy notes over decades. However, even with such robust wines, older vintages like 1988 should be handled with care. The cork might be fragile. Decanting is generally not necessary for Vin Jaune, but allowing it to breathe for a short period (30 minutes to an hour) can help open up its complex aromas. Serve slightly chilled, around 12-14°C (54-57°F), in a traditional 'clavelin' bottle if available, or a standard white wine glass.