Wines Unspecified Jules Larose - Chardonnay

Viniou Reviews

Jules Larose Cuvée Chardonnay Brut is an elegant French sparkling white, crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, known as a "blanc de blancs." This non-vintage wine is produced using the traditional method, the same labor-intensive process used for Champagne, where the secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle, creating refined bubbles and a nuanced bouquet. Since it carries the designation "Brut," it is refreshingly dry with just a subtle touch of residual sugar to balance the natural acidity of the Chardonnay grape. The lack of a vintage allows the winemaker to blend various years for consistency and house style, highlighting crisp citrus, green apple, and floral notes, with hints of brioche and almond from its ageing on lees.

Originating from the Languedoc region in southern France, this wine benefits from a Mediterranean climate—long, sunny days and cooling breezes from the sea create ideal ripening conditions for Chardonnay. The soils in Languedoc are remarkably diverse; limestone and clay impart mineral freshness and structure, complementing Chardonnay's innate elegance. While the Languedoc's wine reputation has been historically tied to volume, recent decades have seen a significant shift towards quality-driven, traditional-method sparkling wines. The region itself boasts a colourful history, with viniculture dating back to Roman times, and today is renowned for its innovative spirit and vibrant wine scene.

For food pairing, this brut sparkling Chardonnay is wonderfully versatile. It shines as an apéritif, but also complements delicate seafood such as oysters, prawns, or scallops, and matches beautifully with sushi or smoked salmon. Locally-inspired Languedoc dishes like brandade de morue or a fresh goat cheese tart also make for excellent accompaniments, as the wine’s acidity cuts through richness and refreshes the palate.

To fully enjoy Jules Larose Cuvée Chardonnay Brut, serve it well chilled, ideally at 6-8°C. Use fluted glasses to highlight its fine bubbles and aromatic complexity, and enjoy its finesse either on its own or throughout a light, festive meal.