So....the Jura? Located just west of Switzerland, it's easily one of the most isolated wine regions in France. And that isolation plays a part in the uniqueness of the region's wines. This is a land of grapes you've never heard of (Melon a Queue Rouge?), italicized wine styles you've never tasted (sous-voile? vin jaune?), and oddly shaped bottles with strange fill sizes (a 620ml clavelin?)

 

Jura reds are currently the height of wine geek chic.  Made from obscure grapes like Poulsard and Trousseau, they have the quality of being a hit among both the more-obscure-the-better set and regular wine drinkers (like my mom.) 

 

Jura whites are a little more polarizing on first sip. They're often made in a purposely oxidized style (or sous-voile in italics) which gives them a distinct twang, similar to a whiff of fino sherry. They offer up a combination of flavors and styles you won't find anywhere outside the Jura - spice, nuts, intense minerality + that defining Jura twang. Hard to describe but delish to taste, which we'll be doing. 

 

On hand will be three whites from Jacques Puffeney, one of the region's most beloved producers.  Tasted together, they're an excellent gateway to the region's uniquely intense vin jaune (which won't be open - but is in stock should you be so inclined.)

 

Puffeney Melon a Queue Rouge 2005 (a.k.a. Chardonnay outside the Jura) - $25.99
Puffeney Cuvee Sacha 2005  (a blend of Chardonnay and Savagnin) - $27.99
Puffeney Savagnin 2005  (sort of a baby vin jaune) - $32.99

 

So come on by.  Or maybe don't - that way, there's more for us!  (Seriously though, come by and try.)