Chateau d'Arlay Cotes du Jura Pinot Noir, Jura, France

Wild cherry and forest floor rise gently from the glass, hinting at the rustic elegance of Jura Pinot Noir. 2017 Chateau d'Arlay Cotes du Jura Pinot Noir reflects a traditional approach to winemaking rooted in centuries of history at one of France’s oldest wine estates. Crafted from south-facing vineyards planted on marl and limestone soils, the wine balances ripe fruit with earthy nuance while honoring the château’s long-standing commitment to restrained vinification and extended oak maturation.

Product Details:

• Winemaker: Pierre-Armand de Laguiche
  
• ABV: 12.5%
  
• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
  
• Farming: Environmentally friendly, organic approach without certification
  
• Soil: Grey marl with limestone rolled stones
  
• Vineyard Elevation: 200–240 meters
  
• Vine Age: Some vines planted in 1953
  
• Fermentation: Vinified in stainless steel and concrete tanks
  
• Aging: Approximately 24 months in oak barrels

Sensory Description:

2017 Chateau d'Arlay Cotes du Jura Pinot Noir opens with aromas of ripe cherry, red currant, and black currant intertwined with forest floor and subtle earthy spice. On the palate, the wine is supple yet structured, offering layered flavors of red berries supported by fine natural tannins. Jura’s characteristic wild nuance appears in gentle savory tones that add depth without overwhelming the fruit. The finish is balanced and persistent, combining freshness, subtle oak integration, and the mineral influence of marl and limestone soils.

Winemaker’s Background:

Château d'Arlay is widely regarded as the oldest winemaking château in France, with viticultural roots dating back to the early Middle Ages. The estate has been owned by the Laguiche family since the twelfth century and has hosted numerous historical figures, including royal patrons and religious orders. Modern winemaking at the château began again in 1960 under Count Renaud de Laguiche, followed by Count Alain de Laguiche, and today the estate is overseen by Pierre-Armand de Laguiche. With approximately twenty-two hectares planted to Jura’s classic varieties, the estate maintains a careful balance between modern cellar techniques and traditional aging practices in its seventeenth-century cellars.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 59 degrees Fahrenheit in a Burgundy-style wine glass to highlight its aromatic complexity. Pair with roast poultry, mushroom dishes, potato galettes, or herb-roasted meats. The wine also complements earthy cuisine such as mushroom omelets, game birds, and rustic regional fare.