The Domaine Cauhapé, one of the most well-known domaines in Jurançon, is run by Henri Ramonteu, passionate grape-grower and one of the region's flagship producers. Every year, his 43 hectares of vines produce 250 000 bottles of this golden wine, made using two grape varieties: Petit Manseng (for sweet wines) and Gros Manseng (for dry wines and the first sweet wines). The vines are situated at 500m above sea level, between the Pyrenees and the Atlantic ocean, therefore benefitting from a climate which combines harsh mountainous conditions with the gentleness of the sea. The soil, a rich mix of clay, pebbles and quartz, allows the grapes to elegantly express their full potential.

In the cuvée Quintessence du Petit Manseng, the grapes are left to be dried by the southern wind, then harvested in December, just before Christmas, when the frosts concentrate the grape’s sugar levels. To produce this wine, Henri Ramonteu has chosen the best, most ventilated parcels – fully south-facing and on the highest point of the plateau – and has begun using very low yields (9hl/h!). In time, the wine takes on a dazzling amber color, with intense aromas of ripe apricot, praline, candied medlar and roasted citrus fruits. This riot of flavor continues in the mouth, where this sophisticated, nervous wine is sumptuously balanced by a splendid acidity and unremitting, grilled - almost chocolatey - aromas. The finish is extraordinarily long. What astonishing alchemy; a truly great wine.