France’s Southwest is full of surprises, and the small but historic Jurançon appellation, in the shadow of the Pyrenees, is perhaps not where one would expect to find racy, mineral-infused white wines that have more in common with Chablis than with other southern whites. But thanks to a truly special terroir and a unique cast of local grape varieties, Jurançon does all that—and more. Today, we are thrilled to announce the addition of a Jurançon specialist to our portfolio.
     Clos Larrouyat is a tiny, family-run domaine whose pristine, saline whites exceeded our wildest dreams about what could be done in this fascinating pocket of southwest France. Maxime and Lucie Salharang began planting the land—which belonged to Maxime’s grandfather—to Gros Manseng, Petit Manseng, and the rare Camaralet in 2011. The domaine sits on a rare band of Triassic limestone that runs through part of the appellation, marking its wines with a distinctive saline signature.
     The couple farms three hectares, pampering their vineyards as if they were little gardens. Certified organic, Maxime and Lucie borrow elements from biodynamics with the goal of achieving harmony in the local ecosystem. Natural grasses left between the rows soak up excess moisture and force the young vines’ roots deep toward the bedrock. Herbicides are not welcome here; instead, a friendly flock of sheep is always on hand to lend a hand when needed.
     In the cellar, fermentation occurs spontaneously in neutral barriques, followed by malolactic—very rare in the region—that beautifully rounds out the Mansengs’ acidic edges. Six-month élevages in neutral wood with bâtonnage give the wines texture and depth. Added sulfur is kept to a bare minimum in order to, as Maxime asserts, “stabilize the mineral purity of the wines.”
     The Jurançon sec bottling featured today is a brilliant manifestation of the house style through the lens of its terroir, featuring delicate, citrusy aromatics, a pinpoint balance of zesty freshness with a silky, suave mouthfeel, and a long, mouth-watering finish. A blend of Gros Manseng with Petit Manseng, Météore delivers bone-dry, zippy refreshment with total charm. An incredibly saline note brings to mind the Triassic limestone terroir in which the vines grow, and will have you salivating with every sip.
     While Maxime and Lucie are still newcomers on the scene, their wines are sophisticated, complex, and display serious class. With this (modest) inaugural shipment, may the pleasure be duly shared.