Marsanne 2019

This Marsanne, known locally as Ermitage, comes from old vines in the Martigny area, in the heart of the canton of Valais. Planted on terraces on granite soils, between Alpine relief and the influence of the Rhône, they produce a white that is broad, taut and deeply marked by its mineral origins.

Vinified without additives and unfiltered, this cuvée undergoes malolactic fermentation before ageing split between 600-litre demi-muids and stainless-steel tanks. A light dose of sulphur is added at bottling to preserve the singular expression of the fruit and the terroir.

This wine reveals notes of raspberry liqueur, ripe pear, yellow peach, white flowers, white truffle, fresh almond, fresh butter, sweet spices and warm stone. The palate is broad and voluminous, with lovely richness and an enveloping texture. A mineral tension drawn from the granite balances its richness, while fine bitterness extends a persistent, saline finish.

Switzerland, a country known for its majestic mountains and shimmering lakes, also has a rich and diverse winegrowing heritage. Although less famous than its French or Italian neighbours, Swiss winegrowing enjoys an excellent reputation thanks to the exceptional quality of its wines. Swiss vineyards are mainly found in the regions of Vaud, Valais, Geneva, Neuchâtel and Ticino, each offering unique climatic conditions and soils suited to growing distinct grape varieties. The Valais is the largest wine region in Switzerland, famous for aromatic white wines such as Fendant, made from Chasselas, and for powerful reds such as Cornalin and Humagne Rouge. The region's dry, sunny climate, combined with schist and granite soils, creates ideal conditions for these grape varieties. The Vaud region, particularly around Lake Geneva, is renowned for its elegant white wines, notably the crus of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These terraced vineyards offer not only wines of great finesse but also spectacular views over the lake and the surrounding mountains. Geneva, although smaller in terms of wine production, is dynamic and innovative, producing a variety of wines ranging from classic Chasselas and Gamay to experiments with international grape varieties. Ticino, close to Italy, is dominated by Merlot, which is made there as both a red and a white wine (white Merlot being made without contact with the grape skins). The mild climate and clay-limestone soils give these wines remarkable structure and complexity. Neuchâtel excels in white wines, notably its Chasselas, but is also known for its Œil-de-Perdrix, a delicate and much-loved rosé. Swiss wines, often produced in small quantities but with great attention to detail, are mainly drunk locally or exported in small volumes, making them hidden treasures for connoisseurs and wine lovers around the world. Switzerland is a country where tradition and innovation meet in the vineyard, offering an authentic, high-quality wine experience.