domaine rolet arbois vin jaune 1987

the small village of château-chalon lies in the heart of the production region of vin jaune, a wine made in the various appellations of the jura from the savagnin grape, a cousin of the famous alsatian traminer. a favourite of henry iv, nicholas ii and metternich, jura vin jaune is a challenge to modern winemaking techniques. the methods used are similar to those adopted for the production of sherry. the winemakers wait until as late as possible to harvest over-ripe grapes, which have an alcohol content of around 15%. once fermentation is complete, the wine is placed in old oak barrels that are not completely filled. it is aged for six years and three months in accordance with the regulations. gradually, a veil of yeast appears on the surface and takes on its full consistency after two to three years. the wine slowly turns into a yellow wine. the bouquet becomes more pronounced and develops exceptionally persistent nutty aromas. for wine lovers: the vin jaune, which should be opened for a good half-day before drinking, should be drunk at room temperature, around 17°. a unique wine, a unique format: the famous clavelin, with a capacity of 62cl, supposed to represent what remains of a litre of wine after six years of conservation in barrel. the gustatory quality of the vin jaune (made only in the best years) and its incredible capacity for ageing (at least fifty years, and up to a hundred for the best estates such as château d'arlay) should make it the equal of montrachet or the greatest sauternes.