L’Éphémère 2017 Domaine des Murmures

L’Éphémère 2017 by Domaine des Murmures: A Rare Jura Red

L’Éphémère 2017 is a unique and unrepeatable cuvée crafted by Domaine des Murmures, born from the desire to capture the most spontaneous and elusive expression of the Trousseau grape. It’s a free-spirited red wine that reflects the poetic and artisanal philosophy of Emmanuel Lançon, a radical winemaker from the Jura.

Story and Philosophy

The name L’Éphémère (“the ephemeral”) says it all: this wine is a moment in time, shaped by a particular harvest, a special parcel, or a fermentation that stood out. Emmanuel Lançon works according to biodynamic principles, embracing a deep respect for the vines and their ecosystem. His wines are made naturally, with no additives, no filtration, and often little to no sulfur.

With L’Éphémère 2017, Trousseau – one of Jura’s native red grapes – is interpreted with finesse and precision. It’s a wine that speaks softly, but with a lasting impact.

Vineyard and Terroir

The grapes come from Pupillin, a village famed for its expressive Jura terroir. The soils here are composed of blue marl and limestone, ideal for revealing the elegance and vibrancy of Trousseau. The vineyards are cultivated without chemicals, following lunar cycles and biodynamic practices. Yields are extremely low – often under 30 hl/ha – to intensify the purity of the fruit.

Vinification and Aging

The winemaking process behind L’Éphémère 2017 is minimalistic and respectful:

• Spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in open-top vats

• Short maceration, to capture aromatic nuance without heaviness

• Aged in used barrels, adding depth without oak influence

• No filtration, natural clarification, manual bottling

The wine is gently guided rather than manipulated, allowing it to express its full personality.

Tasting Notes

Color: Light ruby with violet highlights
Aroma: Subtle yet complex, with fresh red berries (raspberry, red currant), dried flowers, white pepper, forest floor, and a hint of herbs
Palate: Crisp, energetic, with fine tannins and bright acidity. It drinks like a white but leaves the memory of a red – juicy, savory, with a delicately spicy finish.

Grape Variety

Trousseau (100%) – a signature Jura red grape known for its aromatic finesse and aging potential.

Serving Temperature & Alcohol Content

Serving temperature: 14–16°C, can even be slightly chilled
Alcohol: Around 12% vol.

Food Pairings

L’Éphémère 2017 pairs beautifully with refined and seasonal dishes:

• Poultry and light game: roast quail, rabbit stew

• Vegetarian cuisine: mushroom risotto, beet tartare, roasted squash

• Soft cheeses: goat cheese, tomme

• Modern Asian dishes: gyoza, Peking duck, veggie ramen

Conclusion

L’Éphémère 2017 is a wine that resists conventions – it’s not about power, but purity. A contemplative, soulful red that rewards those who listen carefully. Trousseau at its most honest and delicate.

Technical Sheet

Name: L’Éphémère 2017
Producer: Domaine des Murmures
Designation: Vin de France
Vintage: 2017
Bottle size: 750 ml
Type: Red wine
Grapes: Trousseau (100%)
Alcohol: 12% vol
Serving temperature: 14–16°C
Vinification: Natural fermentation, short maceration, aged in used barrels
Style: Elegant, pure, fresh, lightly spiced
Food Pairings: Light game, vegetarian dishes, soft cheeses, Asian cuisine
Availability: Very limited

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Domaine des Murmures: An Exploration of Jura

Domaine des Murmures is an emerging gem in the French wine world, located in the Jura region. This small but ambitious estate, founded by Emmanuel Lançon, stands out for its production of natural wines that reflect the purity and authenticity of the terroir. With the adoption of biodynamic practices, Domaine des Murmures has quickly gained a reputation for its authentic and complex wines.

The Philosophy of Domaine des Murmures

The estate’s philosophy is centered around sustainability and respect for nature. Emmanuel Lançon, who founded the domaine in 2012, focuses on biodynamic viticulture, avoiding the use of chemicals and embracing practices that maintain the natural balance of the vineyard. This approach is reflected in the wines produced, which are pure, without additives, and fermented using indigenous yeasts.

Manual Labor and Rigorous Selection

Every step of the production process is handled with care and attention. The grapes are hand-harvested, with a strict selection to ensure only the best fruits are used. The vinification process occurs naturally, without selected yeasts, sulfites, or any external interventions. This approach aims to express the true character of the Jura terroir in every bottle.

The Terroir of Jura

Domaine des Murmures is located in one of the most captivating wine regions in France: Jura. This region, famous for its limestone and clay soils, is influenced by a unique microclimate that allows the vines to thrive in an ideal environment. Jura is known for its distinctive wines, ranging from the traditional Vin Jaune to lighter and fresher reds.

Soils and Climate

Jura’s soils are rich in minerals and limestone, which gives the wines a notable minerality and a unique structure. The influence of the mountainous climate, with hot summers and harsh winters, contributes to the wines’ natural freshness, vibrant acidity, and depth that evolves over time.

The Wines of Domaine des Murmures

Domaine des Murmures produces both white and red wines, all of which are characterized by high quality and artisanal methods.

Red Wines

The red wines of the domaine are primarily made from the Poulsard and Trousseau grape varieties, both of which are native to the Jura region. These wines are elegant, with soft tannins and a bouquet of fresh red fruits, spices, and mineral notes. Their freshness and complexity make them perfect for early drinking but they also have excellent aging potential.

White Wines

The white wines are made from Savagnin and Chardonnay grapes. These wines offer great freshness, with aromas ranging from ripe fruit to hints of hazelnut and spices, complemented by the minerality that makes them unique. Savagnin, in particular, gives the wines a complex structure with notable aging potential.

Vinification Process

At Domaine des Murmures, vinification follows biodynamic principles, prioritizing the use of indigenous yeasts and avoiding added sulfites. The wines are fermented in wooden casks, where they age and develop complexity and depth. The extended aging on the lees imparts a smooth texture and a rich range of aromas to the wines.

Fermentation and Aging

Each wine is treated with the utmost respect for the fruit. Spontaneous fermentation ensures the integrity and natural expression of the grapes, while aging in oak barrels contributes to the wine’s structure and smoothness.

Organoleptic Characteristics

The wines of Domaine des Murmures are known for their freshness, minerality, and complexity. The main characteristics vary depending on the wine type, but all maintain great elegance and rare finesse.

Color

The white wines range from golden yellow to pale straw, while the reds exhibit a lively, ruby hue that is vibrant and clear.

Aroma

The aromatic bouquet is rich and complex, with notes of fresh fruit, white flowers, and evolving minerality that develops over time. The white wines, in particular, can feature hints of tropical fruit, hazelnuts, and delicate spices.

Taste

On the palate, the wines of Domaine des Murmures are fresh, balanced, and harmonious. Minerality is often evident, and the finish is long and persistent, with a refreshing vibrancy that makes each sip unique.

Food Pairings

The wines of Domaine des Murmures are extremely versatile and pair wonderfully with refined dishes and high-quality food.

Fish Dishes

Perfect with fresh fish or shellfish dishes, such as baked bass or scallops, which enhance the wine’s freshness and minerality.

Cheeses

Excellent with soft cheeses, like Camembert, or aged cheeses that complement the complexity of the wines.

White Meat and Gourmet Cuisine

The red wines of the domaine also pair wonderfully with white meat dishes, such as roast chicken, or gourmet plates featuring porcini mushrooms and foie gras.

Conclusion

Domaine des Murmures is a small treasure in the heart of Jura, representing the excellence of biodynamic and natural winemaking. With its attention to detail, respect for terroir, and artisanal approach to vinification, the domaine produces wines that not only reflect the unique character of the region but also promise to evolve beautifully over time. A must-try for fans of natural and biodynamic wines.