The estate formerly known as Domaine Crépon has been reborn as Maison Vulpin, a transformation that reflects both its rich history and its future ambitions. Established in 1984 by the Schenk family, this picturesque estate is perched on the heights of Villeneuve (VD), offering a stunning panoramic view of Lake Geneva and the Rhône River’s exit point.
Maison Vulpin spans two hectares of prime vineyard land, with one hectare dedicated exclusively to Pinot Noir. The estate also cultivates an array of other grape varieties including Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chasselas, and Gewürztraminer. The vineyards are set on steep slopes, benefiting from the unique terroir of the Vaud Chablais region. This area, situated between the Swiss Rhône Valley and Lavaux, boasts a distinctive soil composition of Rhodanian moraine and clay-limestone, ideal for high-quality grape production.
In 2022, Maison Vulpin is set to debut two new wine collections. The Maison Vulpin range will showcase wines crafted from estate-grown grapes, while the Les Vins du Vulpin collection will feature selections made from grapes sourced from other Swiss vineyards. This dual approach allows Maison Vulpin to highlight both its own terroir and the broader Swiss wine landscape.
Situated high above Montreux and Villeneuve, the estate provides breathtaking views of Lake Geneva extending towards the Savoie region in France. Jordi Renard, originally from Cannes and with a background in the hospitality industry, relocated to the Vaud region to take a position at a prestigious hotel on the banks of Lake Geneva. Renard, known for his approachable nature, continues to work at the Lausanne Palace Hotel while dedicating his holiday time to the harvest at his estate.
The Vulpin wine cellar, managed by Renard and also utilized by La Riva, is responsible for producing wines from their two hectares of Pinot Noir, located at the highest point of Villeneuve. Additionally, Renard operates as a négociant, procuring organic grapes from the Valais region to enhance the estate’s wine offerings. This blend of tradition and innovation marks an exciting new chapter for Maison Vulpin.