About this wine
The Overnoy-Houillon Arbois Pupillin Chardonnay is a legendary expression of Jura viticulture, crafted by Emmanuel Houillon and the late Pierre Overnoy. This wine is produced with minimal intervention, eschewing added sulfites to allow the pure expression of the terroir to shine. It is characterized by its oxidative nuance, profound depth, and vibrant acidity. The palate reveals complex layers of yellow fruits, nuts, and a distinct mineral salinity that defines the unique limestone-rich soils of Pupillin. Aged in old oak barrels using the 'ouillage' method (keeping barrels full), it avoids the ultra-oxidative character of Jura Savagnin under voile, while still developing astonishing complexity. It is a rare, highly sought-after bottle that represents the pinnacle of natural winemaking.
Decant for 30 minutes before serving — this natural wine opens up beautifully to reveal complex nutty and citrus layers.
Sommelier's Note
"This is the wine that proved zero-sulfur Chardonnay could achieve immortal complexity — every serious natural wine collector must experience it at least once."
Food Pairings
Pairs exceptionally well with Comté cheese (aged 24+ months), roasted chicken with mushrooms, creamy mushroom risotto, langoustine bisque, and delicate grilled white fish. Its mineral salinity makes it a revelation with Japanese sashimi.
When to drink it
Ideal for an intimate dinner among serious wine enthusiasts, or as the centerpiece of a Jura wine exploration.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Chardonnay
- Style
- White
- Price Range
- ¥50,000-80,000
Terroir & Winemaking
Grapes are hand-harvested from certified organic vineyards in Pupillin. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in old oak barrels. The wine is aged in barrel using the 'ouillage' method (no voile), and bottled without any added sulfur dioxide, filtration, or fining.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does it taste like?
- A complex harmony of oxidative nuttiness, ripe yellow orchard fruits, beeswax, and intense saline minerality with extraordinary length.
- Is it very oxidative like a Vin Jaune?
- No — it is aged using the ouillage method (barrels kept full), so it develops complexity without the ultra-oxidative sherry-like character of Vin Jaune.
- When is the best time to drink it?
- Best consumed after at least 5-10 years from the vintage date; it can age for 20+ years under optimal cellaring conditions.
Want to know more about this wine?
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