Domaine Courbet Chateau Chalon Vin Jaune 2018
(Jura, France), 750 mL - [VM 93]

About the Winery:
Founded in 1869, this family-run estate, like most during that time, was originally structured on a poly-culture model; vines, grain and livestock. It gradually evolved to producing only grapes and wine over the last 50 years and is now run by Jean-Marie (father) and Damien (son) Courbet. The estate now comprises 7.5 hectares of vineyards. Half are located on the slopes directly below the famous village of Château-Chalon which is arguably the greatest appellation of the region. The balance of the vineyards are located nearby in the communes of Domblans and Menétru.

About this Wine:
Produced from 25-65 year old vines planted in 1945, 1967 and 1986 from two plots. 

The Savagnin grapes are hand-harvested and after pressing, the resulting must is fermented in barrel on its fine lees with only indigenous yeast and flore. It is then aged in barrel (topped off) until the following summer with some lees stirring, and is then assembled and transferred into neutral barrels located in a separate above ground cellar for 6 more years of aging. The wine will not be topped off during this time and a natural mold or flore will develop on the surface of the wine which will protect it from oxidation and allow the wine to evaporate and concentrate naturally over time. The warmer cellar with natural temperature swings is essential to the health of the flore during aging. It will be kept sous voile until it is lightly filtered and bottled at least 7 years after harvest.

The resulting wine is one of the truly unique and great wine experiences on the planet. It will have a light golden hue with green tinges and the nose shows spices, dried fruit, almonds and delicate white flowers. In the mouth, it will express the unique concentration obtained through natural evaporation. High acidity and citrus notes are melded into this spicy, fruity mix that seems to have no end. Extremely persistent, it will keep drawing you back in with its unique powers until the 620ml bottle is drained.

Ratings & Reviews

93 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2018 Château-Chalon is a deeply concentrated, intense take on the appellation that reflects the warm growing season. Pronounced curry, dried almonds, walnuts and dried lemon soar from the glass. Full-bodied, opulent and distinctly nutty, the 2018 is one for the hedonists. Roughly 4,000 bottles were made." - Nicolas Greinacher (Sep 2025)