Philippe Chatillon

is a unique and highly respected figure in the Jura natural wine scene. Known as a "philosopher-winemaker," Philippe approaches viticulture and winemaking with a deeply thoughtful and intellectual perspective, crafting wines that are pure, complex, and evocative. After gaining experience at notable Jura estates such as Domaine des Cavarodes, he launched his own bold project in 2011 in Passenans, driven by a radical vision of natural wine.

Philippe’s philosophy is among the most uncompromising in the region, emphasizing absolute minimal intervention to reveal the purest expression of terroir and vintage:

  • Biodynamic Viticulture: Managing primarily his own vineyards, Philippe follows strict biodynamic practices, nurturing the vineyard as a living ecosystem and focusing on soil vitality and vine health. His approach surpasses certification standards, aiming for profound energetic harmony.

  • Minimal Intervention in the Cellar:

    • Hand-harvested grapes with meticulous sorting.

    • Spontaneous fermentations driven solely by native yeasts, often proceeding very slowly.

    • Wines are never fined or filtered, preserving their natural texture and complexity.

    • Zero added sulfur at any stage, including bottling—an essential pillar of his winemaking philosophy.

  • Extended Aging: Wines mature for extended periods—often several years—in a variety of vessels such as neutral oak barrels, concrete eggs, and clay amphorae. This slow élevage fosters complexity, stability, and unique character.

  • Pure Terroir Expression: Philippe guides his wines with the lightest possible touch, allowing them to develop their own balance and energy. Due to his experimental methods and strict natural approach, many of his wines are classified as Vin de France, outside traditional AOC rules.

Philippe Chatillon works with Jura’s classic grape varieties—Chardonnay, Savagnin, Poulsard, Trousseau, and Pinot Noir—producing a range of distinct, often single-varietal or single-vineyard wines. His wines are celebrated for their purity, vibrant acidity, and profound mineral intensity.