Frédéric Cossard Vin de France Ploussard 2020 750ml [A802]

[Ploussard - Poulsard]

Ploussard is a black grape variety native to the Jura region in eastern France. In international markets, it is more commonly known by the spelling "Poulsard." It accounts for 20% of the total vineyard area in Jura.

The proportion of the cultivated area for each grape variety is as follows:
• Chardonnay: 45%
• Savagnin: 22%
• Poulsard: 20%
• Pinot Noir: 8%
• Trousseau: 5%

Despite being a black grape, its skin is extremely thin and lacking in pigment. As a result, the wines produced are not quite deep red, but rather a pale ruby or a translucent hue close to rosé. The tannins are fine and gentle, paired with a refreshing, medium-to-high acidity. This produces wines with a delicate and light flavor profile.

Light and pleasant Poulsard wines have been released in large numbers from Jura in recent years, yet Frédéric Cossard’s wines offer far more than just lightness and charm. One of the reasons for the unique flavor of his wines lies in his winemaking method. While most producers in the Jura region destem their grapes before fermentation, Cossard uses a technique called "whole-cluster fermentation." This imparts delicate shading and nuance to the translucent liquid, allowing its aromas and flavors to rise with a soft, three-dimensional depth.

[Jura Series]

Frédéric Cossard Jura Series: In 2016, Burgundy suffered from frost, resulting in a severe shortage of grapes. Jean-François Ganevat, Frédéric's friend from Jura, helped him find a source of high-quality grapes from Jura. Frédéric Cossard treated these healthy grapes in his manner, producing vivid wines. Red wines were made from whole bunches—a method rarely used in Jura, where grapes are usually de-stemmed—and he also experimented with skin contact for some white wines. The results were satisfactory, leading him to continue the 'Jura series' in subsequent years.