Last week, I introduced you to Altesse, a grape that is considered one of the most esteemed in the Alpine region of France. Today, I thought it would be a good idea to look at the other French Alpine wine grapes. Thanks to Cooking Chat and WineTraveler for their help with this article.
French Alpine wine grapes
French Alpine Wine Regions
Savoie and the Jura are the two regions that make up the French Alps.
The Savoie wine region, which features Altesse, is located in southeastern France, near the borders of Switzerland and Italy, within the French Alps.
The Jura wine region is located a bit west of the Alps in eastern France, between Burgundy and Switzerland, along the Jura Mountains.
The Grapes
The grapes in the French Alpine are well-suited to the region’s unique terroir and climate. Here are some notable grape varieties:
- Trousseau: This red grape, native the the Jura region, is known for its distinct aromas and earthy notes. It is produced in limited quantities in France and other regions like Portugal and Spain. The grape is named Trousseau because the shape of its berry cluster was thought to resemble a bride’s trousseau. WineTraveler describes the wine as “pale and light-bodied with intense, rich alcohol levels. It has a firm tannic grip with depth and yet weightlessness. It has aromas of deep cherry, violets, strawberry, orange marmalade, lemon peel, nutmeg, black pepper, ripe cheese, seafoam, cured meats, and aged game. It has a chewy and pithy texture with a creamy soft silky finish.”
- Poulsard: This is another red grape variety native to the Jura region. It is often blended with Trousseau and Pinot Noir. It is known for its thin skins and pale coloring.
- Jacquère: This is a white grape that is grown primarily in the Savoie region. It is used to produce lightly scented, refreshing, and gently aromatic dry white wines, such as Vin de Savoie. It’s the grape used in Apremont wines, which is the usual wine paired with cheese fondue.
- Altesse: We got to know this wine last week.
- Chasselas: This grape is largely associated with Switzerland, but it is also used in blending with Jacquère in Vin de Savoie. From this wine, you’re likely to get notes of red apple, apple blossom, melon, mint and smoke.