Time out from cheese for a brief note about one of our new favorite wines, a curious liquid called Macvin du Jura. Ours is made by Nicole Deriaux, the 3rd generation winemaker at Domaine de Montbourgeau, a wonderful little winery whose L’Etoile we have stocked in the past.
The lovely elixir that is Macvin du Jura is made from the juice of a combination of red and white grapes to which the local Marc (“mac”) or grape brandy is added. This addition fortifies the sweet juice with alcohol and stops fermentation. The “wine” is then aged in oak casks for several years to develop and integrate the flavors.
The delicious result is strong and sweet with complex flavors of burnt orange peel, nuts, dried fruits and southern sweet tea. A high alcohol content (17%) and some sweetness means a re-corked bottle will keep for months in your refrigerator, but in spite of these qualities the Montbourgeau Macvin retains a bright, fresh quality that makes it equally appropriate before or after dinner. Ideally we recommend pairing it with a hunk of your favorite Marcel Petite Comté. Try it also with fruit or nut desserts, or even dark chocolate.
Domaine de Montbourgeau Macvin du Jura is available in limited quantities at Formaggio Kitchen South End.
Julie Cappellano is the General Manager and wine buyer at Formaggio Kitchen South End, Boston.
