Eugene Carrel & Fils is located in the village of Jongieux, about 40 miles southwest of Geneva, in between the Rhone River and Lake Bourget, France’s largest lake. Established in the 14th century, the estate is managed by Eugene, his son Olivier and his son-in-law Sebastien. The vineyards are planted on steep, southwest facing slopes at an altitude of 1,476 feet to calcareous clay soils. Despite proximity to the Swiss Alps, the climate is surprisingly warm; Jongieux enjoys 2-3 more hours of sun than any other area in the Savoie. As a consequence the fruit reaches phenolic ripeness, so there is less need to chapitalize. The Carrel vineyards are planted to the traditional varieties of the region: Jacquere (sold as Vin de Savoie Jongieux Banc), Altesse (aka Rousette de Savoie), Gamay and Mondeuse. The majority of Carrel’s wines are vinified in stainless still tank to retain freshness and maximize fruit aromas and flavors. A few of the wines are aged in oak barrels for added volume and structure.

Tasting notes

STUNNING. Three hours of sun and this native grape,JACQUERE, ripens more fuller, displays incredible balance, and wonderful freshness. These delicate grapes go through a Pneumatic press to extract flavor, stainless steel fermentation at low tempratures and bottled in January to retain freshness. This cream-weight golden wine, has a fragrant nose recalling white flowers and a taste bringing to mind flint, almond, and peach. Ideal with fondue and shellfish stew.