Valais Grain d'Or Ermitage Président Troillet Marie-Thérèse Chappaz - Domaine Des Claives 2016

Marie-Thérèse Chappaz took over the running of the domain in 1987, which at the time was composed of a hectare and a half of vines in the Valais in Switzerland. She has expanded the domain – now 10 hectares – spread out in a patchwork of small parcels on hillsides, at between 400 and 600 metres above sea level. The vineyard has Demeter biodynamic certification. This renowned winemaker has been recognized for contributing to the reputation of Swiss wines: in 1996, she was named ‘winemaker of the year’ by Gault&Millau, then ‘icon of Swiss wine’ in 2016. She produces exceptional biodynamic wines. The domaine is particularly known for its production of Petite Arvine, a very rare white grape variety native to Switzerland.

This cuvée of Marsanne (also known as Ermitage du Valais in Switzerland) has aromas of dried and candied fruits, pear and sweet spices, and buttery notes. On the palate, it is powerful, structured, unctuous with a long, slightly bitter finish.