This 2017 Jurançon moelleux, Choix du Prince, hails from the foothills of the Pyrenees in France’s South-West. Jurançon wines are renowned for their expressive and aromatic profiles, largely produced from local grape varieties such as Petit Manseng and Gros Manseng, although exact blends can vary from estate to estate and may include other indigenous grapes. Typically, these wines are crafted in a semi-sweet to sweet (moelleux) style, offering a bright interplay between opulence and freshness. The 2017 vintage was shaped by the region’s marked Atlantic influence, yielding a wine that may display ripe stone fruit, candied citrus, honeyed nuances, and a vibrant acidity providing overall balance and lift.
The Jurançon appellation sits at the shadow of the Pyrenees, where vines benefit from steep, sun-bathed slopes, clay-limestone soils, and a unique climate marked by both Atlantic humidity and mountain breezes. Winters tend to be mild, while autumns are prolonged, allowing for late harvesting and, in the case of moelleux wines, the development of concentrated sugars in the grapes. This region’s winemaking history traces back several centuries; Jurançon wines have long been praised by poets and royalty alike, and today the style remains a celebrated expression of regional character and winemaking skill.
For food pairings, the luscious yet vibrant nature of a Jurançon moelleux makes it highly versatile. It is delightful alongside foie gras—a classic regional match—but equally at home with spicy Asian cuisine, blue cheeses, or fruit-based desserts such as tarte tatin or apricot tart. The balance of sweetness and acidity also complements roasted poultry with fruit sauces, and as an apéritif, it can shine with dried fruits or pâté.
Serve this wine lightly chilled, ideally between 8 and 10°C. This temperature will accentuate both the aromatic complexity and the refreshing finish, ensuring a harmonious and pleasurable tasting experience. Decanting is generally unnecessary; enjoy the wine’s evolving bouquet as it gently warms in the glass.
