The 2023 Croix & Courbet Côtes du Jura Savadonnay is a distinctive Jura white blending 70% Chardonnay with 30% Savagnin from several vineyards around Château-Chalon. The Chardonnay brings richness and rounded orchard fruit, while Savagnin contributes freshness, savoury depth and the distinctive mineral character of the Jura. It shows ripe pear, white peach and yellow apple alongside preserved lemon, chamomile, fennel, toasted almond and subtle spice. A small portion of the Chardonnay is aged sous voile, adding an understated nutty complexity without making the wine overtly oxidative.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied and beautifully textured, with lively acidity supporting layers of ripe orchard fruit, citrus and delicate stone fruit. Pear, yellow apple and apricot are complemented by confit lemon, chamomile and subtle fennel, while toasted almond and gentle spice add savoury depth. The wine is fermented and matured mainly in seasoned 228-litre barrels, followed by further time in tank, giving it a rounded, creamy texture while preserving freshness and mineral drive. A fine saline character provides tension through the mid-palate, leading to a dry, long and mouth-watering finish with lingering citrus, orchard fruit, nutty and mineral notes.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is an excellent choice for adventurous white-wine drinkers who enjoy the combination of Burgundy-like texture and distinctive Jura savoury character. The balance of Chardonnay richness and Savagnin freshness makes it versatile at the table, with enough acidity and structure for further bottle development. Best enjoyed over the next 5–8 years. Serve lightly chilled with pan-fried snapper with lemon and capers, grilled squid with smoked paprika, roast chicken with herbs, leek and Comté gratin, roasted cauliflower with miso and sesame, or mature hard cheeses.
