Domaine Cauhapé Ballet d'Octobre Jurançon Sec

Jurançon, France

Southwest France's most distinctive dry white — Henri Ramonteu's Gros Manseng from Pyrenean clay-sandstone, late-harvested for maximum concentration but fermented to dryness. Citrus blossom, grapefruit pith, tropical fruit, white pepper, mountain mineral, and a structure that develops over 5-8 years. The wine that demonstrates that Jurançon Sec can rival serious white wines from anywhere in France. Individual and irreplaceable.

Pairing intelligence

• main: The Pyrenees's autumnal tradition and its dry Jurançon wine — the wine's grapefruit and mountain mineral bridges the palombe's rich, gamey character; cèpes' earthy depth mirrors the wine's mineral complexity; Armagnac bridges the wine's regional identity
• main: The Basque-Pyrenean tradition and its Gascon white — Jurançon Sec's citrus and white pepper character bridges the Espelette pepper's gentle heat; veal's delicacy allows the wine's complexity to lead; corn bread provides a neutral base