Cotes du Jura 'La Madeleine' Chardonnay, Maison des Saules 2023

Anne-Cécile and Marc, both from the Jura, met at Lycée Hôtelier de Poligny, where they trained as sommeliers. Anne-Cécile worked in Paris at Papillon, while Marc gained experience in London, Valence, and even on a coffee plantation in Ecuador. Returning to France during Covid, Marc worked with Thomas Pico (Domaine de Pattes Loup), and later, the couple collaborated with François Rousset Martin in Jura, all while building their own domain. In 2024, they fully committed to Maison des Saules.

Now, they manage five hectares across Villeneuve-sous-Pymont, Savagna, and L’Étoile, with cellars in Perrigny and Chille, focusing on long-aging Savagnin. Their vineyards, on grey marl and amphitheater-like slopes, are being rejuvenated with great care, even incorporating a new orchard. Currently, 2.6 hectares are in production with the rest coming into production this year.

Practicing organic and biodynamic farming, they aim for certification, while their cellar work is natural and patient. Their wines, aged 24-36 months in old barrels, showcase complexity and finesse. While they primarily produce Chardonnay and Savagnin, they’ve released two younger wines bursting with freshness.

Grape Varieties: Chardonnay Age of Vines: 10 years old Terroir: Grey marls and clay soils Vineyard/Plot Name: La Madeleine Exposition: West Vineyard Surface Area: 0.85ha Altitude: 350m Production: 4200 Bottles Vinification: Native yeasts with no sulphur added Ageing: 12 months on old oak barrels