Jura

The Jura wine region, located in the eastern part of France near the Swiss border, is renowned for its distinctive wines and unique terroirs. Although relatively small, the Jura has a rich winemaking tradition that dates back centuries, producing wines with a wide variety of styles, from dry whites to reds, sparkling wines, and distinctive dessert wines.

Key Grape Varieties:

• Chardonnay: The primary white grape variety, known for producing both fresh and mineral wines as well as rich, oaked styles.
• Savagnin: A native variety that produces oxidative wines, such as the famous Vin Jaune, a unique style of dry, nutty wine aged under a layer of yeast.
• Pinot Noir: Used for producing delicate red wines with light body and red fruit flavors.
• Trousseau: Known for its light, fruity reds, often with a characteristic peppery note.
• Poulsard: A red grape variety that produces light, pale wines with aromas of red berries.

Wine Styles:

• White Wines:

  • Chardonnay: Often displays a balance of fruit and minerality, with some styles being aged in oak barrels for added complexity.
  • Savagnin: Used in the production of Vin Jaune, which undergoes oxidative aging, creating a wine with flavors of nuts, honey, and spices.

• Red Wines:

  • Pinot Noir: Delicate, aromatic wines with notes of cherry, strawberry, and sometimes earthy undertones.
  • Trousseau: Lighter-bodied reds with a distinct peppery spice and red berry flavors.
  • Poulsard: Often very light, with delicate fruit flavors and a pale color.

• Sparkling Wines:

  • Crémant du Jura: Produced in the traditional method (like Champagne), these sparkling wines are typically made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and are known for their fine bubbles and refreshing character.

• Sweet Wines:

  • Macvin du Jura: A sweet wine made by fortifying grape must with marc (a local brandy), resulting in a rich, dessert-style wine.

Major Appellations in Jura:

• Arbois: The most famous appellation, known for its Vin Jaune and Chardonnay wines.
• L’Étoile: Produces some of the region’s finest Chardonnay and Savagnin wines, often with a distinctive mineral character.
• Côtes du Jura: A more general appellation that includes a range of styles from Chardonnay and Savagnin to reds and sparkling wines.
• Château-Chalon: Famous for its Vin Jaune, a unique wine aged for at least six years under a layer of yeast, giving it a distinctive flavor profile.

Food Pairings:

Jura wines are perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes:

• Comté cheese, a local specialty.
• Charcuterie (particularly Jura sausages).
• Poultry, such as roast chicken or duck.
• Foie gras and strong cheeses.

Discover our selection of Jura wines, showcasing the exceptional diversity of this unique wine region. From oxidative whites like Vin Jaune to delicate reds and refreshing sparkling wines, these wines are ideal for those seeking a true taste of the Jura’s authenticity and character.