Cul du Brey red 2023 Domaine de la Tournelle | Jura

Domaine de la Tournelle's Cul du Brey takes its curious name from the locality of Le Cul du Brey, in Arbois, in the heart of the Jura wine region. This vin de France is made from a blend of 3 grape varieties in equal parts , including Syrah, Trousseau and Petit Béclan, an old Jura grape variety that has all but been forgotten. The old, organically-tended vines thrive on limestone scree soils, and the grapes are harvested by hand, with de-stemming carried out on a plot-by-plot basis. The grapes are then vatted in an open cylindrical vat saturated with CO₂, for winemaking conducted in semi-carbonic maceration, with only the indigenous yeasts present on the berries. After 3 weeks, alcoholic fermentation and then malolactic fermentation also take place in vats, before the wine is tapped into old foudres for 6 to 12 months' ageing in cool cellars. No sulfites are added throughout this process, and bottling is carried out while preserving the natural carbon dioxide formed.

Philippe Mischler, sommelier at Mundovin : The Cul du Brey from Domaine de la Tournelle has a very Jura expression, despite its Vin de France label. The blend is perfectly mastered, and faithfully reproduces the freshness of the Jura terroir. A natural wine of the highest quality, as pleasant to discover as it is to rediscover!

On the nose, it's a veritable explosion of fresh red berries, from crisp cherry to wild raspberry and wild strawberry. The spicy, floral character of the Syrah is enhanced by elegant notes of black pepper and violets, without detracting from the overall freshness.

On the palate, the straightforward attack is immediately endowed with a fluid texture, carried by very pure fruit. The tannins are supple and silky, with the extra substance that carries the tasting through. Refreshing acidity and delicate spices on the finish suggest harmonious ageing over the coming years.