Markus Ruch

Klettgau, Schaffhausen, Switzerland

Markus Ruch is a Swiss winemaker celebrated for his role in advancing natural wine production in Switzerland, particularly in the German-speaking region. Formerly a banker, Ruch discovered his passion for winemaking during an internship at a family friend's vineyard, which led him to pursue winemaking full-time. His journey included formative experiences in Ticino, Burgundy, Valais, Tuscany, and Chile, where he developed expertise in biodynamic and natural winemaking techniques.

In 2007, Ruch founded his vineyards in Klettgau, Schaffhausen, a northern Swiss region bordering Germany. The area’s limestone-rich soils, reminiscent of Burgundy, inspired him to focus on cultivating premium Pinot Noir. Today, he manages approximately 3.5 hectares of vineyards, practicing organic farming, biodynamic principles, and minimal intervention in the cellar to create wines that authentically reflect their terroir.

Ruch’s portfolio includes several standout wines:

• Amphore Klettgau: An orange wine made from Müller-Thurgau grapes, fermented spontaneously and aged in amphorae for up to a year with extended skin contact. This wine, crafted without added sulfur, is among the first orange wines in Switzerland.

• Pinot Noir Klettgau: Made from select vineyards in the Klettgau region, this Pinot Noir undergoes spontaneous fermentation and ages for a year in Burgundy oak barrels. It is bottled unfiltered and unfined, highlighting Ruch’s commitment to natural winemaking.

Markus Ruch’s dedication to biodynamic practices and his innovative approach have established him as a key figure in Switzerland’s natural wine movement. His wines are praised for their purity, authenticity, and the distinct character of the Klettgau terroir.