Catalan Eden – Château de Jau, history, wine and art in the heart of Roussillon 🍇🏰

Ten centuries of history

Founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks, the Jau estate has witnessed all the major chapters of Roussillon’s history. At the end of the 13th century, they built the medieval tower that still stands today, originally designed to defend the valley from Barbary pirates. The monks developed the cultivation of vines and olive trees and, thanks to the technique of mutage, exported their wines throughout Europe.

Over the centuries, the estate passed into the hands of influential families, including the Xopi, who introduced silkworm farming and built the current château at the end of the 18th century. The three-hundred-year-old mulberry tree and the former silkworm farm buildings still bear witness to this past.

A pioneering, visionary vineyard

In 1973, the estate was acquired by the Dauré family, a historic wine-growing family from Roussillon. They modernised the winery, replanted the vines and, as early as the 1970s, developed a bold, forward-thinking approach: wine tourism. Château de Jau quickly became a regional pioneer.

Today, the vineyard covers 100 hectares surrounded by 500 hectares of garrigue, on a terroir of limestone and schistous marl, swept by the tramontane wind. Since 2018, the estate has been in organic conversion and now proudly carries the official organic label.

A wine tourism & cultural destination

Château de Jau is also a place of encounters and experiences. Its restaurant, “Le Grill”, open from June to September, serves generous local cuisine on a shaded terrace overlooking the ponds and vineyards. The menu showcases regional produce, paired with estate wines: Côtes du Roussillon, Muscat de Rivesaltes, Rivesaltes Ambré, Chardonnay and sparkling cuvées.

Every summer, the château hosts contemporary art exhibitions in its historic buildings, continuing the cultural vision initiated by the Dauré family. Many renowned artists have exhibited here, including César, Tàpies and Arman.

Practical information

• • Address: Château de Jau, 66600 Cases-de-Pène
  • Opening: Every day from June to September (closed on Mondays in June)
  • Restaurant: Booking recommended on 04 68 38 91 38
  • Activities: On-site wine sales, guided tours, tastings, art exhibitions
  • Website: www.chateaudejau.com

An emblematic landmark of Roussillon

Château de Jau offers a rare combination of remarkable historic heritage, an innovative vineyard and a warm, convivial setting. Between art, wine and nature, it perfectly embodies the spirit of Catalan Eden — the new Provence of the Pyrénées-Orientales.