O2Y Syracuse Carignan 2022

O2Y is a collaborative négociant venture based in Poligny, Jura, France, founded by Yves Roy, Yoshinori Kuroda, and Olivier Guala. Yves Roy, known for his work at Domaine Nøvice, and Yoshinori Kuroda, assistant to Emmanuel Houillon at Domaine Overnoy, bring extensive winemaking expertise to the project. Olivier Guala, with a background in classic automobile restoration and distribution, contributes his vast network of contacts with winemakers and growers across France, managing the complex task of sourcing grapes. The trio sources grapes from their home region of the Jura, Beaujolais, Alsace, and the Côte Catalanes, with all vinification and élevage taking place in their shared cellar in Poligny. This approach allows them to explore various terroirs and grape varieties, driven by a passion for exploring other regions and varieties and the reality of wildly inconsistent yields in the Jura today.

Yves and Yoshi are responsible for the winemaking, each crafting their cuvées. Their unified philosophy centers on producing unsulphured and unmanipulated wines that express a sense of place, passion, and joie de vivre. Olivier's extensive network facilitates the sourcing of high-quality, biodynamically farmed grapes, ensuring the integrity of their wines. O2Y's commitment to natural winemaking and exploration of diverse terroirs has resulted in a range of vibrant, expressive wines that reflect each region's unique characteristics. Their collaborative approach and dedication to authenticity have established O2Y as a notable producer in the natural wine community.

The Jura is one of France's most fascinating and distinctive wine regions. Nestled between Burgundy and Switzerland, this small region is known for its unique terroir and traditional winemaking techniques. With around 2,000 hectares of vineyards, Jura has a diverse climate influenced by the Alps and continental conditions, offering ideal settings for complex and rare wines. Jura is home to indigenous grape varieties that are rarely found elsewhere. Savagnin is the star here, producing the region's famous Vin Jaune, a wine aged in barrels under a thin layer of yeast called "voile," giving it its distinctive oxidative character. Other important grapes include Poulsard and Trousseau, used for the light, earthy reds typical of Jura, and Chardonnay, often made in traditional Burgundian and oxidative styles.

The soils in the Jura are varied, but limestone and marl dominate, giving the wines an underlying minerality. The high-altitude vineyards, which can reach up to 400 meters, help retain acidity in the grapes, balancing the robust flavors from the winemaking process. One of Jura's most famous wine styles is Vin Jaune, often compared to sherry due to its oxidative nature. It's aged in barrels for at least six years and three months, developing rich, nutty, and savory flavors. This wine is made exclusively from Savagnin grapes and traditionally bottled in a 620 ml bottle of the iconic clavelin. Vin de Paille, another specialty, is made from grapes dried on straw mats, concentrating their sugars and flavors into a sweet, intense wine.

For red wine lovers, Jura offers light yet structured reds made from Poulsard and Trousseau. These wines are pale in color but packed with complexity, showing notes of red berries, earth, and spice. While Chardonnay is also grown here, Jura's expression is unique, often displaying nuttier, richer flavors than its Burgundian neighbor.
One cannot discuss Jura without mentioning Crémant du Jura, the region's sparkling wine made using the traditional method. It offers excellent value and quality, with crisp acidity and bright fruit notes, making it a delightful alternative to Champagne.

The winemaking philosophy in Jura is deeply rooted in tradition. Many winemakers practice organic or biodynamic farming, and there is a strong emphasis on minimal intervention in the cellar. This respect for nature and terroir is part of what makes Jura wines so distinctive and sought after.
In recent years, Jura has gained a cult following among wine enthusiasts. Its small production, coupled with its unique styles, has made it one of the most intriguing wine regions in France. Whether you're seeking the nutty richness of Vin Jaune or the delicate, earthy reds, Jura offers a wine experience like no other.