The Grain Mariage is a masterful blend—a true "marriage"—of two ancient and noble indigenous Valaisan red varieties: Cornalin and Humagne Rouge. This cuvée beautifully captures the complexity and spirit of the high-altitude, sun-drenched terroir between Leytron and Chamoson. Crafted under the meticulous, Biodynamic philosophy of Marie-Thérèse Chappaz, this wine balances the power and structure of Cornalin with the finesse and wild aromatics of Humagne Rouge.
Color: A profound, dark cherry hue, signaling deep concentration.
Nose: Highly complex and captivating. The bouquet offers a blend of concentrated dark berries (black cherry, blackcurrant) alongside signature savory and earthy notes—think licorice, olive tapenade, mountain herbs, and a subtle graphite minerality. There is often a hint of violet and exotic spice, adding great elegance.
Palate:Ample, structured, and beautifully balanced. The attack is rich and flavorful, possessing both the rustic charm of the Alps and a surprising degree of seductive finesse. The Cornalin contributes firm, silky tannins, while the Humagne Rouge provides a refreshing, wild acidity and aromatic lift. It is powerful yet refined, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish that demands food.
Grape Varieties: An approximately equal blend of Cornalin and Humagne Rouge.
Terroir: Sourced from specific, high-quality parcels (often Champs Longs) on the right bank of the Rhône, featuring limestone scree and schist soils.
Viticulture: Certified Biodynamic (Bio Suisse + Demeter).
Vinification: The Cornalin is often fully destemmed to highlight its pure fruit, while the Humagne Rouge may be vinified with a portion of whole clusters to enhance structure and aromatic complexity. Aged in oak barrels for several months to harmonize the blend.
This wine is a superb companion for the elevated regional cuisine of the mountains.
Specialties: Game meat (e.g., deer ragout, chamois), hearty stews, or lamb prepared with rosemary and wild mushrooms.
Classics: A perfectly roasted prime rib or a rich, dark chocolate dessert with cherry notes.
Due to the excellent structure provided by the Cornalin and the acidity of the Humagne Rouge, the Grain Mariage is built to age gracefully. While expressive when young (ideally decanted for 1-2 hours), it will evolve beautifully for 10+ years, deepening its earthy complexity and softening its powerful tannins.
The Grain Mariage is a masterful blend—a true "marriage"—of two ancient and noble indigenous Valaisan red varieties: Cornalin and Humagne Rouge. This cuvée beautifully captures the complexity and spirit of the high-altitude, sun-drenched terroir between Leytron and Chamoson. Crafted under the meticulous, Biodynamic philosophy of Marie-Thérèse Chappaz, this wine balances the power and structure of Cornalin with the finesse and wild aromatics of Humagne Rouge.
Color: A profound, dark cherry hue, signaling deep concentration.
Nose: Highly complex and captivating. The bouquet offers a blend of concentrated dark berries (black cherry, blackcurrant) alongside signature savory and earthy notes—think licorice, olive tapenade, mountain herbs, and a subtle graphite minerality. There is often a hint of violet and exotic spice, adding great elegance.
Palate:Ample, structured, and beautifully balanced. The attack is rich and flavorful, possessing both the rustic charm of the Alps and a surprising degree of seductive finesse. The Cornalin contributes firm, silky tannins, while the Humagne Rouge provides a refreshing, wild acidity and aromatic lift. It is powerful yet refined, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish that demands food.
Grape Varieties: An approximately equal blend of Cornalin and Humagne Rouge.
Terroir: Sourced from specific, high-quality parcels (often Champs Longs) on the right bank of the Rhône, featuring limestone scree and schist soils.
Viticulture: Certified Biodynamic (Bio Suisse + Demeter).
Vinification: The Cornalin is often fully destemmed to highlight its pure fruit, while the Humagne Rouge may be vinified with a portion of whole clusters to enhance structure and aromatic complexity. Aged in oak barrels for several months to harmonize the blend.
This wine is a superb companion for the elevated regional cuisine of the mountains.
Specialties: Game meat (e.g., deer ragout, chamois), hearty stews, or lamb prepared with rosemary and wild mushrooms.
Classics: A perfectly roasted prime rib or a rich, dark chocolate dessert with cherry notes.
Due to the excellent structure provided by the Cornalin and the acidity of the Humagne Rouge, the Grain Mariage is built to age gracefully. While expressive when young (ideally decanted for 1-2 hours), it will evolve beautifully for 10+ years, deepening its earthy complexity and softening its powerful tannins.
