Renaissance of an iconic Jura wine estate

This is the signature of the Maire family, which has been associated with winemaking in the Jura for generations going back to 1632. Of course, the most emblematic is Henri Maire, a larger-than-life character who, in the 1950s, embodied the virtuosity of France’s smallest wine region (3,000 hectares).

Today, the Domaine Maire & Fils in Arbois expresses the spirit of Jura more than ever. True to this great legacy, the biggest estate in the region, which comprises 349 hectares, of which 218 are in production, aims to become a leading light once again thanks to the intense work carried out in recent years by a family from a neighboring region – the Boisset family of Burgundy. A similar approach to that used in Burgundy is being adopted, with plot definition, identification of soils, respect for the environment, and various technical investments, all geared towards producing great wines as only the more northerly cool-climate regions can produce.

These are the essential requirements for a pure style that will naturally preserve the terroir, and where the many indigenous varietals alongside some more classic ones provide a wide range of delightful expression in both still and sparkling wines. Yes indeed, the Jura also makes bubbly!

The new estate manager is a passionate winemaker from Alsace, Jacques Hauller, whose goal is to develop production through the following ranges:

 

Remarkably crisp wines, light and elegant, which reveal all the mineral potential of the Jura: Chardonnay, Savagnin Blanc, Pinot Noir and rosé classified as Côtes du Jura.

The best plots in limited quantities: Arbois Pinot Noir and Chardonnay Vignes de Sorbief; Arbois Trousseau Vignes aux Anes; and Arbois Poulsard En Geillon. Lastly, the Vignes de Brégand, exclusively organic production of Arbois Pinot Noir.

Wines with a distinctive character made using the varietals and vinification methods emblematic of the Jura: Côtes du Jura Chardonnay, Côtes du Jura Savagnin, and Côtes du Jura Tradition, produced as a white with a blend of Chardonnay and Savagnin, and as a red with a blend of Pinot Noir, Trousseau and Poulsard.

 

The labels, bearing a picture of a grouse, the region’s symbolic bird, will be unveiled in the spring, and will be available in all markets.