Jura Wines

Franche-Comte (flag on left) with its capital of Besancon covers an area of 6,253 square miles and has four Departements - Doubs, Haute Saone, Territoire de Belfort, Jura. Once independent and ruled by its own count from the 9th century possesion was disputed by France, Burgundy, Austria and Spain until it became a French province in 1678. 

The Jura is one of the least well known areas of France separated from the Alps by Lake Geneva (Lac Leman). The Jura mountain ranges run along the Swiss French frontier between the rivers Rhone and Rhine; the highest peak is Crete de la Neige at 5,650 feet. As a tourist destination it is less known than other skiing venues but enjoys the spectacular views and runs of the more exploited areas just a few miles away. In addition to skiing visitors have wonderful countryside to walk, wildlife and the small towns and cities are well known amongst wood turners and carvers.

Pontarlier, France's second highest town at 837 metres is the original home to Absinthe created in the late 18th century by Henri-Louis Pernod.  Unfortunately the neurological damage caused by over indulgence led to it being banned in 1915.

Jura wines