Jolie-Laide Wines Trousseau Noir - Cabernet Pfeffer - Gamay, California

The 2023 'Mele' from Jolie-Laide Wines, crafted in the vibrant winemaking landscape of California, is a testament to the innovative spirit of winemakers Scott and Jenny Schultz. This unique blend combines Trousseau Noir, Cabernet Pfeffer, Gamay, and Poulsard, sourced from adventurous vineyards in Northern California. Each varietal contributes distinctive characteristics to the wine, creating a complex yet harmonious profile that mirrors the eclectic and dynamic nature of its origins.

Product Details:

• Blend: 42% Trousseau Noir, 20% Cabernet Pfeffer, 30% Gamay, 8% Poulsard
• Winemaking: Grapes were fermented in a tank, partially carbonic for brightness, and aged in neutral oak barrels, whole cluster to enhance spice aromas and maintain lean, mineral-driven qualities
• Alcohol Content: 11.6% ABV
• Region: California, USA
• Winemakers: Scott and Jenny Schultz

Sensory Description:

The 'Mele' 2023 offers a tapestry of aromas and flavors, featuring pomegranate and raspberry from Trousseau, fresh black pepper and rose hip from Cabernet Pfeffer, bright red-fruited notes from Gamay, and lively acidity from Poulsard. This blend is inspired by the wines of the French Alps and reflects a Californian pastiche that defies conventional expectations. Its profile is marked by a vibrant acidity and a palate of complex spices and delicate, earthy undertones.

Winemaker’s Background:

Scott Schultz’s path to winemaking began with his tenure at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon in Napa Valley, leading to influential roles at notable wineries before founding Jolie-Laide in 2010. Alongside his wife, Jenny, Scott focuses on minimal intervention winemaking, using native yeasts and neutral oak to let the unique characteristics of each vineyard site express themselves fully in every bottle.

Serving Suggestions:

The 'Mele' is ideally suited for a variety of culinary pairings, especially dishes that complement its earthy and spicy profile. It pairs beautifully with charcuterie, roasted game birds, or mushroom-based dishes. To best appreciate its multifaceted flavors, serve slightly chilled and allow the wine to breathe before enjoying.

Jolie-Laide's 'Mele' is a celebration of the diversity and quality of Californian viticulture, offering a wine that is as intriguing and complex as the landscape from which it originates. Each vintage features unique artwork on the labels, underscoring the individuality and craft of each year’s production, making every bottle a collectible piece of the winemaking year.