Trousseau

Trousseau is the deeper, more structured of the two red grapes native to the Jura in eastern France, where it makes pale, perfumed, light-to-medium-bodied reds built on red fruit, earth and spice rather than colour or weight. Despite its translucent ruby hue it carries surprising aromatic intensity, bright acidity and a fine tannic grip, ageing better than its lighter Jura cousin Poulsard. The same grape has been grown for centuries across the Iberian Peninsula — as Bastardo in Portugal, where it is a Port variety, and as Merenzao or Maturana Tinta in north-west Spain. Fragrant, savoury and food- friendly, it is a benchmark for those who prize finesse and perfume over power.