Fabien Jouves Skin Contact Maceration 2024

Fabien Jouves runs Mas del Périé from his family estate in Cahors, in south-west France, a region better known for Malbec but where he also makes a range of natural cuvées. This orange wine is a blend of Muscat, Gros Manseng and Ugni Blanc, three varieties that together bring aromatic lift, acidity and freshness. The grapes are fermented with skin contact, which adds texture, colour and a phenolic grip, then aged for eight months in foudres, large old wooden casks that allow slow oxygen exchange and build savoury complexity without imparting obvious oak flavour. The aromatic Muscat leads the perfume while Gros Manseng and Ugni Blanc keep the acidity high and the wine taut. Farming is natural and organic, with native-yeast fermentation and minimal intervention. Look for an amber colour and a fragrant nose of apricot, white peach and orange peel lifted by white flowers and a floral, rose-like note from the Muscat. The palate is dry and textured, with stone fruit, dried herbs and a savoury, grippy finish that reflects the skin contact and time in cask. Serve at around 12 to 14 degrees in a broad glass. It suits roast pork, chicken and nutty cheeses.