From: Savoie, France
Varietal: Jacquere
Taste: On the nose, it opens up with fresh and delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus fruits, and a hint of fresh almonds. As it opens up, it reveals a subtle mineral character that is characteristic of the terroir from which the grapes are sourced. On the palate, the wine is dry, crisp, and refreshing, with a perfect balance between freshness and vinosity. The high acidity of the Jacquere grape variety is beautifully balanced by the fine bubbles and a gentle creaminess that comes from the extended time on the lees. The minerality that was hinted at on the nose comes through on the palate, adding an extra layer of complexity and a pleasant lingering finish.
Pairing: This celebratory sparkler is a pro at the table. We’ve included a list of possible pairings to get you started below!
General Pairings:
Aperitifs: The Don Giachino is a perfect wine to serve as an aperitif. It pairs well with light appetizers such as olives, nuts, and cheese.
Salads: The bright acidity of the wine complements the freshness of salads. Try pairing the Don Giachino with a simple green salad or a salad with citrus fruits.
Light seafood: The Don Giachino pairs well with light seafood dishes such as oysters, shrimp cocktail, and ceviche. Of course, fried, grilled or poached fish dish (check out the cod sliders recipe listed after these suggestions), such as grilled sea bass or poached salmon with a light herb butter sauce will be fantastic alongside this wine as well. The wine's bright acidity and refreshing character will help balance out the richness of the fish, while the mineral notes will complement the flavors of the herbs and butter.
Regional Pairings:
Savoie cuisine: The Don Giachino pairs well with traditional Savoie dishes such as fondue, raclette, and tartiflette. The wine's acidity helps cut through the richness of the cheese, while its minerality complements the flavors of the dishes.
French cuisine: The Don Giachino pairs well with classic French dishes such as coq au vin blanc, sole meuniere, and quiche Lorraine. The wine's bright acidity and floral notes complement the flavors of these dishes.
Vegetarian Pairings:
Grilled vegetables: The Don Giachino pairs well with grilled vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. The wine's minerality complements the smoky flavors of the vegetables.
Creamy vegetable dishes: The Don Giachino pairs well with creamy vegetable dishes such as mushroom risotto, creamy vegetable soup, and gratin dauphinois. The wine's bright acidity helps cut through the richness of the dishes.
Vegetable tarts: The Don Giachino pairs well with vegetable tarts such as quiche or tart tatin. The wine's floral notes complement the flavors of the vegetables, while its bright acidity helps balance out the richness of the pastry.
Korean Cod Jeon Sliders (Pan-Fried Cod Sliders)
By Kay Chun
About this wine. Domaine Giachino "Don Giachino" (2018) Methode Traditionnelle 100% Jacquere: A Sparkling Wine Gem
Domaine Giachino is a winery that produces exceptional wines that are rooted in tradition, terroir, and a deep respect for nature. One of their standout offerings is the NV Domaine Giachino "Don Giachino" (2018) Methode Traditionnelle 100% Jacquere sparkling wine. This wine is a classic method with an elegant nose that showcases notes of white flowers, citrus fruits, and fresh almonds. The palate is straight and balanced, characterized by a mineral touch and a perfect balance between freshness and vinosity.
The grapes used in the production of "Don Giachino" are 100% Jacquere, a white grape variety that is native to the Savoie region of France. Jacquere is known for its high acidity, freshness, and delicate flavors, making it an ideal grape for sparkling wine production.
The vinification process for this wine follows the traditional method. The bottles are kept on the side for at least 24 months, with cold settling by thermoregulation of the tanks at about 10°C for 96 hours. Alcoholic fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature of a maximum of 16°C for 3 to 12 weeks, followed by malolactic fermentation. Bottling takes place in March, followed by second fermentation. The wine is aged on the lees for 36 months and subsequent disgorgement. It is not dosée, meaning that no additional sugar is added before corking the bottle.
The result of this meticulous production process is a sparkling wine that is both complex and refreshing. The nose is dominated by aromas of white flowers, citrus fruits, and fresh almonds. On the palate, the wine is straight and balanced, with a mineral touch that is characteristic of the terroir from which the grapes are sourced. The acidity is high, but perfectly balanced with the vinosity of the wine, making it an excellent choice for pairing with white meats or as an aperitif.
All together, this 100% Jacquere sparkling wine has been one of our favorites from Domaine Giachino. It showcases the unique terroir of the region, the skill of the winemaker, and a deep respect for tradition and sustainability. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, this sparkling wine is sure to impress.