Appellation

Côtes du Jura

コート・デュ・ジュラ

Jura's largest AOC — every style from crisp whites to oxidative Vin Jaune

Côtes du Jura is the largest and most versatile appellation in the Jura wine region of eastern France, created in 1937 and now spanning 105 communes across roughly 672 hectares. Stretching nearly 80 kilometers north to south between Salins-les-Bains and Saint-Amour, it covers a diverse range of terroirs — limestone in the north and south, marl and clay in the center — and permits all five Jura grape varieties: Chardonnay and Savagnin for white wines, and Poulsard, Trousseau, and Pinot Noir for red and rosé. The appellation produces the full spectrum of Jura wine styles, from fresh, non-oxidative whites to the region's iconic oxidative Vin Jaune and sweet Vin de Paille, as well as red, rosé, and sparkling Crémant du Jura. Its cool continental climate, marked by cold winters, spring frost risk, and high autumn rainfall, gives the wines pronounced acidity and mineral character.

Best for: Wine enthusiasts seeking unique, terroir-driven wines and those curious to explore oxidative winemaking styles like Vin Jaune.

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Producers

Food Pairings

The signature pairing is Poulet au Vin Jaune et aux Morilles (chicken braised in Vin Jaune with morel mushrooms), one of Franche-Comté's most celebrated dishes. Vin Jaune itself is classically served with aged Comté cheese and walnut bread, and also pairs well with poultry in cream sauce, haddock, lobster, and spiced dishes, while the fresher Chardonnay- and Savagnin-based whites suit freshwater fish and charcuterie.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Côtes du Jura wines unique?
The region is famous for its oxidative winemaking tradition, especially Vin Jaune, a wine aged under a veil of yeast (like Sherry) that develops distinctive nutty, curry-spice notes.
Are all wines from Côtes du Jura oxidative?
No. The appellation produces a wide range of styles, including fresh, non-oxidative white and red wines, elegant rosé, and sparkling Crémant du Jura, alongside its famous oxidative Vin Jaune.
What grape varieties are grown in Côtes du Jura?
Five grape varieties are permitted: Chardonnay and Savagnin for white wines, and Poulsard, Trousseau, and Pinot Noir for red and rosé wines.
How many communes does the Côtes du Jura appellation cover?
Côtes du Jura spans 105 communes across roughly 672 hectares, making it the largest of the Jura's geographical appellations and covering about a third of the Jura vineyard.
What food pairs best with Côtes du Jura wine?
The classic pairing is Poulet au Vin Jaune et aux Morilles (chicken with Vin Jaune and morels), along with aged Comté cheese, which is considered the region's signature culinary match.