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Domaine du Chambet

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Domaine du Chambet 〰️

Domaine du Chambet is a family-owned winery located in Gy, Geneva, Switzerland, near the border with Haute-Savoie, France. Named after a small stream running along its vineyards, the estate spans 10 hectares across eight parcels on the left bank of Lake Geneva, with diverse terroirs like the 3.2-hectare Terroir du Fiez (southwest-facing, moraine-rich soils). The Fonjallaz family has farmed the land since 1921, initially focusing on polyculture. Viticulture grew in importance, and in 1987, Gérald and Marion Fonjallaz began bottling wines. Since 2017, their son Anthony Fonjallaz has led the winery, officially taking over in 2021, ushering in a modern era of natural winemaking. The domaine is certified Bio Suisse (organic) and incorporates biodynamic practices to promote biodiversity and ecosystem harmony.

Winemaking Philosophy:
Anthony Fonjallaz champions minimal-intervention, natural winemaking, adhering to the strict standards of the Association Suisse Vin Nature. Vines are hand-harvested, and wines are vinified with indigenous yeasts, minimal or no added sulfites, and no fining or filtration. The domaine produces two lines:

  • Les Réserves: Classic cuvées reflecting traditional Geneva styles.

  • Les Cuvées Libres: Anthony’s experimental, natural wines emphasizing spontaneity and terroir.
    The winery also manages 2 hectares of apple orchards for cider production, reflecting its diversified agricultural roots.

Key Wines:

  • La Garmaise (Chasselas, 2023): A vibrant, dry white from the La Merlinge plot, with citrus, floral notes, and fresh minerality. Fermented in stainless steel with malolactic fermentation, it’s unfined, unfiltered, and pairs well with Swiss fondue or raclette.

  • La Saline (Chasselas, 2021): A 100% natural white, no added sulfites (<10 mg/L), with saline and sparkling mouthfeel, ideal as an aperitif.

  • Pét-Nat Sans Filtre (Chasselas, 2021): A sparkling white, 100% natural, with fine bubbles and crisp fruitiness.

  • Mara Sur Mar (Rosé, 2021): A unique rosé from Mara grapes infused with Gewürztraminer marc, offering delicate tannins and strawberry-cherry notes.

  • L’Orangerie (Pinot Gris, 2021): An orange wine, sulfur-free, with expressive peach, orange zest, and nougat aromas, balanced by tonic acidity.

  • Gamay (La Merlinge): A crunchy, smoky red vinified in whole bunches, aged in old oak, with rich yet easy-drinking fruitiness.

  • Merlot Cuvée Linus (2022): A structured red with classic Merlot depth, part of the Réserves line.

  • Pinot Noir: A juicy, parcel-specific red with delicate tannins and vibrant fruit.

  • Other varietals include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Gamaret, Garanoir, Divico, Marselan, and Gewürztraminer, reflecting the diverse terroir.