Dry white

Jura Chardonnay

Robe — Pale gold

  • green apple
  • citrus
  • hazelnut
  • chalk
  • white flowers
Palate
Taut and mineral in the topped-up style, nuttier under the veil
Ageing
3–12 years
Serving
11–13 °C

Alongside its famous Savagnin, the Jura grows a great deal of Chardonnay — the same grape as neighbouring Burgundy, but in the region's own idiom. On the grey marl soils it makes taut, mineral, Burgundian whites when topped up (ouillé); on limestone, or aged under a veil of yeast, it takes on a nutty, savoury Jura character.

Long overshadowed by the region's oxidative curiosities, Jura Chardonnay has become a cult favourite — fresh, chiselled and remarkable value beside its Côte d'Or cousins. It is the quiet, versatile backbone of Jura white wine.

The blend

A typical modern composition

Where it is made

Producers

A few estates working in this style today — a sample, not a ranking

Through time

Indicative presence index, 0–100Origins & Antiquity — 0The Monastic Middle Ages — 15Exploration & the Fortified Age — 25Classifications & the Golden Age — 30Phylloxera & the World Crises — 25The Modern & New World Era — 60Antiquity0500150017001875195060