Domaine de l'Octavin Cicogne Gewurztraminer 2023

Domaine de l'Octavin is an iconic natural wine producer based in the Jura region of France. It was founded and led by the talented winemaker Alice Bouvot in 2005. The domain is known for its commitment to creating wines that authentically reflect their terroir and the unique expression of each vintage.

Alice Bouvot embraces biodynamic farming practices across her vineyards in Arbois and nearby regions. The vineyards are planted with traditional Jura grape varieties, such as Savagnin, Poulsard, Trousseau, and Chardonnay, alongside unique parcels sourced from organic and biodynamic growers for her négociant projects. No synthetic chemicals or pesticides are used, and vineyard work focuses on fostering biodiversity and soil health.

Domaine de l'Octavin is synonymous with minimal intervention in the cellar. Grapes are harvested by hand, fermentations occur spontaneously with native yeasts, and no sulfur is added during winemaking or bottling. Alice often employs whole-cluster fermentation, extended maceration, and aging techniques in various vessels, including fiberglass, stainless steel, and old barrels, to bring out the wines' individuality. Each wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.

Domaine de l'Octavin's wines are vibrant, expressive, and unconventional. They often challenge traditional notions of Jura wines, offering a playful yet profound take on the region's possibilities. Standout cuvées include Pamina, Cariboom, Charlot, and Clé à Molette, each bearing a unique identity while sharing a common thread of freshness, energy, and complexity.

Alice Bouvot has earned a dedicated following among natural wine enthusiasts worldwide. Her wines, often small in production, are celebrated for their authenticity, creativity, and ability to evoke a sense of place. Domaine de l'Octavin has become a benchmark for natural winemaking, influencing a new generation of vintners and solidifying Jura's reputation as a hub for innovative, terroir-driven wines.

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.