Côtes du Jura Rouge Fruitiere Vinicole Arbois 2018

This is a very interesting, elegant wine and something a little different.

Established in 1906 and claiming to be the oldest co-operative in France, the Arbois Fruitière has played a significant role in the history and development of modern Jura wines. Today around 100 members deliver approximately one-third of the AOC’s production to the co-operative.

This red blend features two indigenous varieties of the Jura. The thin-skinned Poulsard makes wines that are barely darker than rosé. This contrasts and balances its neighbouring variety, Trousseau which is more demanding and serious (proven to be the same variety as Bastardo, found on the Iberian Peninsula.) These two natives are blended in equal measure with the ubiquitous Pinot Noir, the third permitted red grape in theArbois AOC.

Although it is pale in colour, and light bodied at 12.5% this is a little deceiving as it is packed full of flavour. It has lively bright red fruits and exotic spice notes. You could lightly chill this interesting, very drinkable red.