Jura wines
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Your guide to Jura
History of wines from Jura
The history of Jura wines dates back to Roman times, with evidence of wine production found in ancient texts. However, it wasn't until the Middle Ages that winemaking truly flourished, with Cistercian monks playing a pivotal role in shaping the landscape and refining winemaking techniques. The region faced significant challenges, including the phylloxera outbreak in the 19th century and the aftermath of World War II, but its winemakers preserved traditional methods and grape varieties, contributing to the distinctive character of Jura wines.
The Jura region gained AOC status in 1936, solidifying its place among France’s esteemed wine-producing areas. The unique terroir, with limestone soils and varied microclimates, influences grape ripening and flavor profiles. Traditional winemaking practices, such as using oak barrels left untopped to allow a layer of yeast to develop, impart unique flavors to certain Jura wines. This oxidative winemaking method is particularly evident in the production of Vin Jaune, which ages for at least six years and three months in oak barrels.
Over the centuries, Jura has cultivated a reputation for producing wines that are distinct, complex, and often intriguingly unconventional. Chardonnay and Savagnin are key grape varieties, with Savagnin being the primary grape used in Vin Jaune. Trousseau and Poulsard also contribute to the region's diverse wine portfolio, producing light, aromatic red wines and deep-colored, intensely flavored wines. Despite its rich history and unique wines, Jura remains a relatively small and underappreciated wine region in France.
Terroir of Jura
The terroir of Jura wines is characterized by a diverse range of soils and microclimates. The region spans from the north to the south, encompassing various terroirs that contribute to the unique flavor profiles of its wines. The Jurassic period's legacy is evident in the region's limestone soils, which contain star-shaped Pentacrinite fossils, adding to the terroir's distinctiveness. The varied terroirs, including gravelly vineyards near Arbois, support a wide array of grape varieties, each expressing itself subtly depending on the specific conditions.
The cool climate of Jura, situated between Burgundy and Switzerland, influences the wines with high acidity, making them food-friendly. The region's winemaking traditions, including the use of ancient grape varieties like Savagnin, Poulsard, and Trousseau, add to the terroir's complexity. The unique winemaking styles, such as the oxidative aging process for Vin Jaune, further distinguish Jura wines. This combination of terroir, climate, and traditional practices results in wines that are both refined and mineral, with exotic aromas when made with Savagnin.
Top grapes in Jura
Savagnin
Savagnin is a distinctive white grape variety native to the Jura region of France. It is best known for its role in producing the unique Vin Jaune, a wine that undergoes a specific aging process under a veil of yeast. This grape is highly appreciated for its ability to reflect the terroir and for its complex flavor profile, which includes notes of nuts, green apple, and spices. Savagnin thrives in the cool climate of Jura, contributing to the region's reputation for producing wines with high acidity and distinctive character.
Poulsard
Poulsard is a red grape variety primarily found in the Jura region, where it is used to make light-bodied, pale-colored red wines. This grape is known for its delicate and aromatic qualities, often exhibiting flavors of red berries, earth, and spices. Poulsard wines are typically low in tannins and have a bright acidity, making them refreshing and easy to drink. The grape's thin skin contributes to its lighter color and body, distinguishing it from more robust red wines and making it a favorite among those who prefer subtler reds.
Trousseau
Trousseau, also known as Bastardo, is another red grape variety from the Jura region. It produces wines that are richer and more full-bodied than those made from Poulsard. Trousseau wines are known for their deep color and complex aromas, which often include dark berries, pepper, and sometimes floral notes. This grape adapts well to Jura's terroir, resulting in wines that are well-structured with a good balance of acidity and tannins. Trousseau is increasingly popular among wine enthusiasts who appreciate its robust profile and potential for aging.