White: Jonguieux Blanc 2006

Domaine Eugene Carrel is located in the village of Jonguieux, which is the largest of the 17 appellations of the Savoy region, at the beginnings of the French Alps. It is situated about 40 miles southwest of Geneva (Switzerland), in between the Rhone River (near its source) and Lake Bourget, France's largest lake. The Jonguieux vineyards are very steep, southwest facing slopes created by ancient glaciers. The altitude is between1200 feet and 1500 feet, yet the microclimate is very warm. The priviledged clay-limestone slopes of the Jonguieux appellation allow the grapes to be ripen more fully than in any other Savoy regions, due to 2-3 hours more sun daily.As a result, the wines are not only fuller, but also more balanced and fresher.

The estate cultivates the traditional varieties of the region, namely Jacquere (sold as Vin de Savoie Jonguieux Blanc) Altesse and the unique red Mondeuse. The Jonguieux Blanc, made from the native Jacquere grape, exemplifies Hugh Johnson's characterization of this varietal: "you are drinking bottled mountain air".

Jonguieux Blanc is a tonic wine that combines fresh, intense floral aromas and vivid lively citrus fruit underpinned by a soft minerality. It keeps a small amount of natural CO2 that further enhance its freshness and vitality. The 2006 Jonguieux is perfect on its own, or paired with cold fish, seafood or cheese such as comte.