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Explore the Best Wineries in Côtes de Jura

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Côtes du Jura is one of the largest appellation in France. The Côtes du Jura is known for its unique style of wine. The unique, natural taste and aroma are incomparable to other wines in the world. Thanks to the unique taste and aroma qualities of local wines and the technical features of their production, it is fascinating to dive into the Côtes du Jura wine region by sampling each specific vineyard. As you get to know them better, you will be able to find your own favorite spot among the variety.

Check out the best wine tastings and tours in Cotes du Jura Wine Region

Where is the Cotes du Jura Wine Region

Cotes du Jura wine region includes most of eastern France, stretching from Burgundy to Switzerland with a geographical scope like no other wine growing region.

History of Cotes du Jura

The wine industry in Cotes du Jura wine region had its fair share of complications in the 1800's when phylloxera came and wreaked havoc. Not only has the wine industry suffered ,but there are other unforeseen consequences such as the decline in food culture. The plants started to die and the wines that used to be produced here were soon rendered undrinkable. Fortunately, things have been changing on Jura's side as they continue to innovate new techniques.

Terrior of Cotes du Jura

The Cotes du Jura is known for its unique and distinctive terroir wines. This appellation encompasses a wide range of terroirs. Its soil consists of some clay, some gravel and limestone. Winemakers plant vines on the southern slopes to ensure that the get the most sunlight. Winemakers often carry out this practice in summer, and a vine's life span can typically be around 15 years. The Jura Mountains stretch between France and Switzerland, separating the two countries. It has stood for many years as a land rich in woods. It is clear that these natural conditions have a great influence on the quality of grapes, thousands of years ago. The availability of good weather has a strong impact on the that can sometimes be better than modern hydroponic systems.

Cotes du Jura Characteristics 

Winemakers of Côtes du Jura make unique wines in part because their indigenous grape varieties and unique climate provide a high level of distinction. Côtes du Jura wines are original because they have a unique style that many other winemakers do not have.

Cotes du Jura wines can be red, white or rose and the appellation also includes Jura's famed vin jaune and vin de paille. Cotes du Jura wines are some of the most delicious. They're famous for their interesting acid profiles, but also for being a variety of wine that can be blended with white or red grapes to create many different flavors.

Chaptalization is the addition of some sugar to wine, often at the expense of acidity and found in wines from regions with low levels of natural sugar such as those found in some parts of Jura. White wines are typically aged in oak casks for several months before release while red wines can be aged in stainless steel tanks for a shorter period of time before being bottled.

Food to pair with Cotes du Jura Wine

1. Choucroute Garnie

A dish more typically associated with the French region of Alsace, Choucroute Garnie is made from sauerkraut, onions, garlic, juniper berries, goose fat and white wine. This dish pairs well with a hearty rustic meal such as roast beef or steamed vegetables.

Sauerkraut is typically garnished with a number of ingredients such as smoked or fresh beef and pork sausages, pork loin, pork shoulder, and bacon. There's even a super-sized version called choucroute royale with added calf or pork liver dumplings. It pairs well with the Cotes du Jura wine.

2. Plateau de fruits de mer

Platter of fish and seafood is a traditional dish in France typically served over crushed ice. Traditional dishes like this are enjoyed by many people from all around the world. The seafood used in this dish is typically a variety of shellfish like shrimps, mussels, lobsters, crabs, clams. It can either be cooked or raw. It is traditional to place seafood on chilled platters that are covered with crushed ice. This seafood platter usually has a lemon wedges and a variety of sauces, such as mignonette sauce, mustard sauce, and cocktail sauce. The Cotes du Jura wine pairs very well with this dish.

3. Tête de veau

This French specialty involves making a stew with the head of a calf, which is boiled for hours until it becomes tender and the skin develops a gelatinous consistency. The dish was hot and in a rich red sauce with soft boiled vegetables and tasty pieces of finely chopped meat, cooked in herbs and spices. Although the dish has numerous supposed origins, author Gustave Flaubert traces it back to the British celebrating the decapitation of King Charles I. After the French revolution and yet another well-known decapitation, it was apparently brought to France by a group called Les Cordeliers. A serving of Jura white wine helps to bring out the delicate flavor of this dish.

Places to visit near Cotes du Jura

1. Pic de l'Aigle

At the top of Pic d'Aigle, you will have a panoramic view of the Jura rising vertically at your feet. You'll see Uriage and Ilay gorges across your field of vision. On the left, you can see the Jura massifs behind which you can see Mont Blanc in good weather. The plateaus above the Saône Plain are also visible on the right.

2. Belle section sur le canal Doubs / Rhône au Rhin

On a short cycle path, bordered by cliffs on the Rhône-Rhine canal, there are a few picnic spots. It's also rather pretty here as you can see.

3. Cascade de l'Éventail

The Fan waterfall is by far the most recognizable of the Havre waterfalls. It has a steepled design and provides an easy to climb platform that enables you to get up close and personal with it.

4. Baume-les-Messieurs

The ancient and once important Benedictine monastery is located in a wonderful location in France. It has origins that date back to the 6th century when Christianity was first established there. In 900, the famous abbey in Burgundy was founded where it remains today.

Frequently asked questions about

Cotes du Jura Wine Region

Is Cotes du Jura famous for wine?

Yes, Côtes du Jura is famous for wine, The appellation is the largest in Eastern France's Jura wine region. It's known for its unique terroir wines with a distinct style. Wine from the Côtes du Jura is one of the most unique and authentic in the wine world, with characteristics that set it apart from other wines.

What is the primary grape varieties grown in Cotes du Jura?

The primary grape varieties for reds and roses are Poulsard, Trousseau, and Pinot noir grapes, white wines from Chardonnay and Savagnin grapes.

What's the best time to visit Cotes du Jura?

The best time to visit in Cotes du Jura are May, June, July, August and September, because the weather is warm and quite nice.

Map of Wineries in Côtes de Jura

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Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in Côtes de Jura