Chérouche Les Lots 2022

Domaine de Chèrouche is a natural wine estate located in Ayent, in the Valais region of Switzerland. Founded in 2010 by Andrea Grossmann and Marc Balzan, the domaine spans 1.3 hectares across eight plots situated between 600 and 850 meters above sea level. The vineyards, primarily south-east facing, are planted with a diverse range of grape varieties, including Chasselas, Petite Arvine, Chardonnay, Amigne, Savagnin, Pinot Noir, Diolinoir, Syrah, and Gamay. The soils comprise schist, clay, and quartz, contributing to the unique terroir of the region.

The viticulture at Domaine de Chèrouche is organic, with a strong emphasis on manual labor due to the steep slopes, which can reach inclinations of up to 38%. Fertilizers and irrigation are prohibited. Instead, the vineyard employs natural treatments such as herbal teas made from wormwood, nettle, yarrow, dandelion, horsetail, and goat whey to manage vine health. The lunar calendar is also observed to guide vineyard activities.

In the cellar, the winemaking process is minimalistic and respectful of the grapes' natural characteristics. Grapes are hand-harvested and processed using a manual destemmer. Fermentation is initiated with indigenous yeasts, and the wines are aged in stainless steel tanks without the use of wood, fining, filtration, or added sulfur. This approach results in wines that are precise, fruity, and reflective of their alpine origin.

Domaine de Chèrouche's commitment to natural winemaking and their unique terroir have garnered attention beyond Switzerland. Their wines are appreciated in top restaurants across France, the United States, and Canada. Despite their low profile and limited production, the domaine has established a reputation for producing authentic and lively wines that embody the spirit of the Swiss Alps.

Valais is the most important wine-producing region in Switzerland, accounting for over one-third of the country’s total vineyard area. Nestled in the heart of the Alps, this picturesque region stretches along the Rhône River from Martigny to the eastern edge of the canton. It is known not only for its dramatic landscapes—snow-capped peaks, steep terraced vineyards, and dry Alpine air—but also for its remarkable diversity of grape varieties and wine styles.

Valais boasts a unique terroir shaped by glacial soils, abundant sunshine (more than 2,000 hours per year), and minimal rainfall. Vineyards are planted at altitudes ranging from 450 to 1,100 meters, making them among the highest in Europe. The dry, sunny climate combined with large diurnal temperature shifts helps preserve acidity and develop complex aromatics in the grapes.

While international grapes like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive here, Valais is especially celebrated for its indigenous varieties. These include Petite Arvine (a mineral-driven white with citrusy acidity), Humagne Rouge (a rustic, earthy red), Cornalin (a deeply colored, floral red), and Amigne (a rare white known for its honeyed texture and aging potential). Chasselas—locally known as Fendant—is also widely grown and remains a staple of local white wine production.

Valais is home to a dynamic mix of traditional family estates and forward-thinking natural wine producers. Winemakers here often work on tiny plots, cultivating steep, hand-tended vineyards using sustainable or biodynamic practices. While the region maintains a deep respect for tradition, there is also a strong spirit of experimentation, especially among a younger generation of vignerons.

Valais offers some of the most terroir-driven, distinctive wines in Europe. Whether you’re sipping a zippy Petite Arvine with raclette or exploring a structured Cornalin aged in oak, the wines of Valais reflect the rugged beauty and diversity of this Alpine region. It’s a must-know for any wine lover interested in mountain viticulture, rare grape varieties, and truly artisanal production.