Savagnin

Savagnin Blanc (not to be confused with Sauvignon Blanc) is an ancient white wine grape from the sub-alpine regions of eastern France. Its most famous application is in two of France's most idiosyncratic wines, the Sherry-like Vin Jaune and the sweet, concentrated Vin de Paille, both of which come from the eastern Jura region.

The Savagnin name has become most synonymous with Vin Jaune, a wine that is a matured in barrel for several years under a naturally occurring film of flor yeast. During this maturation period the wine develops rich, nutty flavors (similar to those found in the fino Sherries of Jerez) and the deep yellow color which gives it its name; jaune is French for "yellow". The finest examples of these, which are arguably the finest examples of Savagnin Blanc wines anywhere, come from the vineyards of Chateau-Chalon in the Jura.