Alcohol: 12.5%
Grape(s): 60% Chardonnay, 40% Savagnin
Location: Jura, France
Tasting Notes: This cuvée is the classic white wine of Montbourgeau. Chardonnay is the dominant grape but an occasional Savagnin vine is found within the Chardonnay plantings, an addition which adds a touch of complexity to the ultimate blend.
Notes: Co-fermenting 60% Chardonnay with 40% Savagnin on indigenous yeasts, followed by 18 months élevage in demi-muids.
Food pairing: Domaine de Montbourgeau L'Étoile pairs beautifully with a variety of savory and umami-rich dishes. Its oxidative style and Jura minerality make it an excellent match for pungent cheeses like Comté, Morbier, or aged Gruyère, which highlight the wine’s nutty and saline notes. Roasted pork loin or pork belly complements its richness and acidity, while mushroom-based recipes such as risotto or tarts echo its earthy depth. Savory pastries and quiches, especially those with cheese and herbs, also pair well, as do dishes accented with hazelnuts or almonds that mirror the wine’s oxidative character. Served lightly chilled, this wine enhances foods that showcase its complexity and structure.
Winery Story: Domaine de Montbourgeau is a historic, family-run estate located in the village of L’Étoile in the Jura region of France. It was founded in 1920 by Victor Gros, who began planting vines in this unique terroir known for its fossil-rich limestone soils. The name “L’Étoile” itself refers to the star-shaped fossils found in the area, which contribute to the distinctive minerality of the wines.
In 1956, Victor’s son Jean Gros took over the domaine, expanding the vineyard holdings and constructing a proper winery to support growing production. His efforts laid the foundation for the estate’s reputation for quality and tradition. By 1986, Jean’s daughter Nicole Deriaux joined the family business. She brought renewed energy and vision, modernizing the cellar and planting Savagnin to produce Vin Jaune, one of Jura’s most iconic wines.
Today, Nicole leads the domaine with the same commitment to authenticity and terroir-driven winemaking. Her three sons are actively involved, poised to continue the legacy into a fourth generation. Domaine de Montbourgeau remains dedicated to traditional Jura methods, including long barrel aging and minimal intervention, producing wines that reflect the precision, intensity, and honesty of their origins.
