Wines of the Jura

Dating back to antiquity, the Jura wine region expanded significantly beginning in the 18th century, when the first steps toward regulating production were taken. Since the late 19th century, maintaining wine quality has been a major concern for Jura winemakers.

The Jura wine region, which today covers approximately 1,800 hectares, is situated on a terroir stretching from Salins-les-Bains in the north to Saint-Amour in the south, with vineyards planted at altitudes ranging from 200 to 400 meters. It enjoys a semi-continental climate with often sudden weather changes. Summers in the Jura are generally hot and dry. The south or southwest exposure ensures that the Jura vineyards receive ample sunshine and are protected from the wind. However, the region features quite contrasting microclimates due to the varied topography and differing levels of sun exposure. The soils are largely limestone, providing permeability and solubility that are particularly favorable for Jura grape varieties.

The Jura produces red, rosé, and white wines, as well as sparkling wines, notably the famous Crémant du Jura. The “yellow wines”—very dry with characteristic nutty aromas—are the region’s most iconic. Three specific grape varieties dominate the Jura region: Poulsard and Trousseau for reds and rosés, and Savagnin for whites, supplemented to a lesser extent by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, inherited from nearby Burgundy. Six Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée ( AOCs) highlight the diversity and quality of Jura wines. Among them, the AOC Arbois, the AOC Côtes du Jura, and, of course, the AOC Château-Chalon—which produces exceptional yellow wines made exclusively from the Savagnin grape—are particularly noteworthy.

In addition, the Jura is home to high-quality wineries such as Rolet, Jean Macle, Berthet-Bondet, Montbourgeau, Stéphane Tissot, Labet, and Rijckaert.

For more information, visit the official website for wines from the Jura region.