Domaine de Montbourgeau
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Domaine de Montbourgeau 〰️
Tradition and Terroir: A Journey Through Domaine de Montbourgeau
In the heart of the Jura, in the village of L’Étoile, Domaine de Montbourgeau embodies the spirit of tradition and respect for nature that defines this storied wine region. Since 1920, when Victor Gros first planted vines on the estate, three generations of the same family have carried on the legacy—each contributing to the domaine’s quiet evolution while staying true to its roots.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Jura
Domaine de Montbourgeau has been a family-run estate from the start. After Victor Gros laid the foundations, his son Jean Gros took over in 1956 and expanded the vineyards. In 1986, Jean’s daughter, Nicole Deriaux, joined the family business and now oversees the entire operation. With her three sons poised to take the reins, the future of the estate remains in capable hands.
Nestled in L’Étoile, a small appellation in the southwestern Jura, the estate sits among rolling hills whose star-shaped formation—along with the presence of ancient starfish fossils in the soil—gives the village its name. This tiny appellation spans just 52 hectares, shared among L’Étoile and neighboring villages Planoiseau, Saint-Didier, and Quintigny.
Vines with Purpose, Wines with Soul
Today, the domaine cultivates nine hectares of vineyards, primarily dedicated to Chardonnay, with 1.7 hectares planted to Savagnin. Smaller parcels of Trousseau and Poulsard complete the mosaic of traditional Jura varieties. The viticulture is organic, and all vineyard work is done with the utmost respect for the land.
For over 15 years, the team has practiced a thoughtful approach to soil health—alternating between cover crops and green manures. They plant their own vines and even craft their acacia stakes by hand. This hands-on dedication extends through every stage of production.
All harvesting is done manually. In the cellar—tucked beneath the family home—fermentation begins in stainless steel tanks before the wines are transferred into large oak foudres, demi-muids, and smaller used barrels. The whites are aged traditionally: no racking, no topping up. This allows the wines to develop the distinctive oxidative character that defines many Jura classics.
Embracing Innovation While Honoring Heritage
While the domaine continues to produce its well-known cuvées with care and consistency, the younger generation is beginning to explore new paths—experimenting with parcel-specific bottlings and fresh expressions of the terroir. Their curiosity is balanced by deep respect for the traditions passed down to them.
Visitors are welcome at the estate, where they can taste the wines and learn firsthand about the family’s philosophy, methods, and the singular charm of the Jura landscape. Each bottle from Domaine de Montbourgeau is a testament to time, tradition, and terroir—an authentic expression of one of France’s most captivating and under-the-radar wine regions.
Where to Find Domaine de Montbourgeau Wines
Online Retailers (Global & EU Focus)
International Retailers & Distributors (Examples)
- **France (Jura & Beyond):**
- **Winery Direct Sales (by Appointment):** Domaine de Montbourgeau is located at 53 Rue de Montbourgeau, 39570 L'Étoile, Jura. While they don't have an e-commerce site, they welcome visitors by appointment (contact via email or phone: domaine.montbourgeau@wanadoo.fr / 03.84.47.32.96).
- **Specialized Wine Shops (Cavistes):** Look for traditional and fine wine shops across France, especially those with a strong Jura selection, in cities like Paris, Lyon, and in the Jura region itself.
- **United States:**
- **Rosenthal Wine Merchant (US Importer):** A highly regarded importer of classic French wines, including Domaine de Montbourgeau. They supply many top-tier wine shops and restaurants across the US.
- **Wine.com (Online, US):** A large online retailer that carries a selection of Domaine de Montbourgeau wines.
- **Chambers Street Wines (NYC):** A renowned wine shop in New York City with an excellent selection of Jura wines, often including Montbourgeau.
- **Astor Wines & Spirits (NYC):** Another prominent retailer in New York City that stocks Montbourgeau.
- **K&L Wine Merchants (CA):** A major California retailer that often features Jura wines.
- **Total Wine & More / BevMo!:** Larger retailers may carry more accessible bottlings, but for specific or older vintages, look to smaller, specialized shops.
- *Contact independent fine wine shops in major US cities (e.g., NYC, LA, SF, Chicago, Portland) that specialize in French wines or have a dedicated Jura section. Many operate online and ship to various states.*
- **United Kingdom:**
- **Berry Bros. & Rudd (UK Retailer):** A historic London wine merchant with a strong portfolio of fine French wines, including Domaine de Montbourgeau.
- **The Wine Society (UK Retailer):** A large and respected UK wine club that often stocks Montbourgeau wines.
- **Lea & Sandeman (UK Retailer):** A well-regarded London wine merchant that carries Jura wines.
- *Look for independent wine merchants in London and other major UK cities who specialize in French regional wines or have a strong focus on Jura.*
- **Canada:**
- **L'Agence Jura (Quebec, Canada Importer):** A highly specialized importer focused exclusively on Jura wines, including Montbourgeau. They distribute to restaurants and private clients (where permitted).
- *Check with provincial liquor boards/agencies (e.g., SAQ in Quebec, LCBO in Ontario for Vintages releases) or specialized private wine shops (where permitted) for availability.*
- **Asia (e.g., Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore):**
- *Given the prestige of Montbourgeau, their wines are likely available through fine wine importers and retailers in major Asian markets. Look for specialists in French regional wines.*
Winery Information & General Profile
- **L'Etoile (Chardonnay):** Their classic white wine, often a blend of Chardonnay with a touch of Savagnin, aged "ouillé" (topped-up) for freshness and minerality.
- **L'Etoile "En Banode":** A field blend of Chardonnay and Savagnin, often with a mix of "ouillé" and "sous voile" aging, showcasing complexity.
- **L'Etoile Savagnin "Sous Voile":** A benchmark oxidative Savagnin, aged under flor, displaying nutty, curry, and spice notes.
- **L'Etoile Vin Jaune:** The iconic "yellow wine" made from 100% Savagnin, aged for 6 years and 3 months under flor in barrel, known for its intense nutty, spice, and dried fruit character.
- **L'Etoile Vin de Paille:** A sweet wine made from dried grapes (Chardonnay, Savagnin, Poulsard), offering concentrated honeyed and dried fruit flavors.
- **Crémant du Jura:** Sparkling wine from Chardonnay and other Jura varieties.
- **Côtes du Jura Poulsard (Red):** A light-bodied, fragrant red wine.