Julien Crinquand

History of Domaine Julien Crinquand

Domaine Julien Crinquand is the culmination of a personal journey guided by a passion for wine and the Jura terroir. A native of the region, Julien Crinquand chose early on to pursue viticulture. After several formative experiences working alongside local winemakers, he decided to create his own domaine in order to express his vision of wine: free, alive and deeply rooted in respect for nature.

Based in Arbois, the historic birthplace of the Jura vineyard, he gradually takes over a few hectares of vines that he tends with meticulous care. His objective is clear: to produce authentic wines, free of artifice, capable of expressing as faithfully as possible the identity of Jura grape varieties.

In just a few years, Domaine Julien Crinquand has established itself as a reference among lovers of natural wines and characterful cuvées. Its exclusive production, often sourced from micro-plots, has made it a highly sought-after name among connoisseurs today.

Terroirs and Vines of Domaine Julien Crinquand

The vineyard of Domaine Julien Crinquand extends mainly around Arbois, on emblematic Jura terroirs. The soils, composed of blue marls, limestone and clay, offer exceptional geological diversity, particularly well-suited to local grape varieties.

The domaine cultivates the traditional varieties of the region: savagnin, chardonnay, poulsard, trousseau and pinot noir. Each plot is worked by hand and with careful consideration, with a constant concern for respecting natural balances.

Committed to an approach close to organic farming and biodynamic practices, Julien Crinquand favours gentle farming methods: soil cultivation, cover cropping, treatments limited to the strict minimum and manual harvesting. This approach yields healthy, expressive grapes with a strong identity — an essential foundation for producing great Jura wines.

Winemaking at Domaine Julien Crinquand

In the cellar, the philosophy is one of minimal intervention. Winemaking is conducted as naturally as possible, with spontaneous fermentations using indigenous yeasts and very limited use of additives.

Ageing takes place in large oak casks or Burgundian barrels, with an intention to let time work on the wines. Certain cuvées are aged sous voile, following the great Jura tradition, while others are crafted using the ouillage method to preserve aromatic freshness.

The style of Domaine Julien Crinquand is characterised by straightforward, vibrant and energetic wines, often unfiltered and unfined. Truly natural wines, with a strong personality, capable of evolving magnificently over time.

The Cuvées of Domaine Julien Crinquand

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Chardonnay

A straightforward and mineral white wine, crafted using the ouillage method. It develops notes of citrus, white fruits and a beautiful saline tension typical of Jura terroirs.

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Savagnin Ouillé

The domaine's flagship cuvée, this non-oxidative savagnin offers a lively and sharp profile, marked by aromas of lemon, flowers and flint.

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Savagnin Sous Voile

A great Jura speciality, this wine aged sous voile reveals notes of walnut, spices and curry. A characterful white wine, built for ageing and gastronomy.

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Poulsard

A light and delicate red wine, with aromas of fresh red fruits and gentle spices. Ideal for discovering the finesse of the poulsard grape variety.

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Trousseau

More structured and spiced, this Jura red captivates with its depth and vibrant fruit. A cuvée very much appreciated by lovers of authentic wines.

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Pinot Noir

A Jura interpretation of the Burgundian grape variety, this red wine stands out for its elegance and freshness, with fine tannins and excellent drinkability.

Domaine Julien Crinquand – Crémant du Jura

A sparkling wine crafted using the traditional method, offering a fine bubble and great freshness, perfect as an aperitif.

Depending on the vintage, other single-plot or experimental cuvées may be produced, further fuelling the interest of enthusiasts in these rare and exclusive wines.

Frequently Asked Questions – Domaine Julien Crinquand

How to serve a wine from Domaine Julien Crinquand?

The domaine's ouillé white wines are served between 10 and 12°C to preserve their freshness and aromatic expression. Savagnin cuvées that are ouillées or aged for longer benefit from being opened 20 to 30 minutes before serving. Oxidative wines, such as vin jaune, are served slightly cooler, around 12°C, without prolonged decanting. Pinot noir-based reds are best enjoyed between 14 and 16°C, after a gentle aeration.

What to eat with a wine from Domaine Julien Crinquand?

Chardonnays and ouillé savagnins pair well with fish, shellfish, poultry, pressed cheese and vegetable-based cuisine. Savagnin cuvées with a more pronounced profile are a great match for Jura dishes, aged cheeses, mushrooms or cuisine with spiced notes. Vin jaune finds classic pairings with chicken with morels, cream-based dishes or aged cheeses. Pinot noirs go well with white meats, fine charcuterie or dishes with delicate flavours.

What are the best vintages from Domaine Julien Crinquand?

For white wines, the 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2020 vintages are prized for their balance, precision and ageing potential. For savagnin cuvées intended for long-term development, the years 2011, 2013 and 2015 stand out for their structure and depth. Pinot noir-based reds are particularly harmonious in the 2015, 2018 and 2019 vintages.

How to store a wine from Domaine Julien Crinquand?

The wines of Domaine Julien Crinquand have a variable ageing potential depending on the style, ranging from 5 to more than 20 years for savagnin cuvées and vin jaune. They should be stored on their side, away from light, in a cool and stable cellar at around 10 to 12°C. Good humidity levels and a constant temperature allow the wines to develop harmoniously over time.