The Jura

We know the Jura region isn’t on everyone’s radar, but we think it’s a special corner of France that deserves more attention. Tucked between Burgundy and Switzerland, it produces some of the most distinctive wines in the world—wines that don’t always fit neatly into familiar categories. You’ll find pale, feather-light reds, mineral-driven whites, and oxidative styles like Vin Jaune that are unlike anything else you’ve tasted. They may not be wines you’ve encountered before, but we think it is absolutely worth exploring for their character, history, and distinctiveness.

The Jura region, located in eastern France between Burgundy and Switzerland, is a small but distinctive wine country shaped by dramatic geography and complex geology. Vineyards lie along the western slopes of the Jura Mountains, benefiting from a cool continental climate with snowy winters, mild springs, and warm summers tempered by Alpine influence. The soils are primarily limestone and marl, often rich in fossils, which lend a unique mineral edge and tension to the wines. This combination of altitude, varied exposures, and ancient soils produces wines with striking precision and character.

Winegrowing in the Jura dates back to Roman times, and by the Middle Ages, the wines were prized in courts and monasteries across Europe. The 19th century marked the region’s golden age, with vineyards covering nearly 20,000 hectares, but phylloxera, wars, and economic hardship drastically reduced plantings. By the mid-20th century, Jura’s vineyards had shrunk to around 1,500 hectares. In recent decades, however, the region has experienced a revival, driven by passionate growers and international recognition for its authenticity and unique styles. Today, Jura remains one of France’s smallest but most dynamic wine regions, blending tradition with innovation.

The region’s identity is shaped by its native and historic grape varieties. Savagnin is the signature white grape, capable of producing both oxidative and fresh, vibrant wines. Chardonnay,  called “Melon d’Arbois” locally, thrives here as well, yielding wines that range from crisp and mineral to richly textured. On the red side, Poulsard (Ploussard), with its pale color and lifted red fruit, and Trousseau, known for its spice and depth, define Jura’s lighter-bodied reds, while Pinot Noir plays a small supporting role.

The Jura is renowned for its range of distinctive wine styles. These include crisp, mineral-driven whites; ethereal, pale reds; and sparkling Crémant du Jura. But the most iconic are oxidative wines, particularly Vin Jaune (“yellow wine”), made from Savagnin aged under a veil of yeast (voile) in barrel for more than six years, developing nutty, spicy, and layered flavors that are truly one of a kind. Sweet Vin de Paille, made from dried grapes, also holds a special place in the region’s repertoire. Together, these styles showcase the Jura’s remarkable versatility and individuality.