Our Savoie wines
Savoie wine, historical reminder
Viticulture in Savoie has undergone a long evolution since Antiquity, influenced by Greek techniques. The Romans, notably Pliny and Columella, had already praised the quality of the region's wines over 2,000 years ago. Throughout history, the vineyards have been maintained by the Church, which cultivated vines at altitudes exceeding 1,000 meters.
The region was struck by tragedy in 1248 when Mont Granier collapsed, killing many people and burying entire villages under millions of cubic meters of rock. Later, in the 18th century, farmers replanted vineyards on these scree slopes, which would become the future Savoie crus: Les Abymes and Apremont .
A Savoyard Wine Tradition Rooted in the Heart of the Alps
Savoie wines have a long history and are deeply rooted in the Alpine region of the same name. Nestled between France, Italy, and Switzerland, the Savoie vineyards boast a unique terroir, ideal for producing exceptional wines. The indigenous Savoyard grape varieties grown in the region produce wines with subtle aromas and distinct personalities. If you're a wine lover or simply curious to discover new oenological horizons, Savoie wines are a true gem worth exploring.
Discover white Savoy wine
Today, the Savoie vineyard covers an area of over 2,000 hectares, mainly in the Savoie and Haute-Savoie departments, but extending slightly into Ain and Isère. The region has 4 Savoyard AOCs: Vin de Savoie, Roussette de Savoie, Seyssel and Crémant de Savoie. White wine accounts for around 80% of production, due to the soils composed mainly of limestone and moraine, which are ideal for the region's typical white Savoyard grape varieties such as Jacquère, Altesse, Chasselas, Roussanne and Mondeuse Blanche .
Discover the red wines of Savoie
Red grape varieties are fewer in number, but they include the famous Mondeuse, Persan, Gamay, and Pinot Noir. If you had to keep one: Mondeuse, one of the most authentic red grape varieties of Savoie, a fine and elegant wine with aromas of red fruits and spices. Don't hesitate, enjoy a trip to the heart of the Savoie mountains to discover this Mondeuse with its many different profiles by meeting the best winemakers who are passionate and committed to organic, biodynamic, and/or natural viticulture.
Chignin Vin: a unique terroir
Chignin is a village located in the Combe de Savoie. It faces Mont Granier and its two vintages (Abymes and Apremont), already mentioned. It is located between the regional natural parks of the Massif des Bauges and Chartreuse, southeast of Chambéry and south of Albertville. In Gallo-Roman times, it was a strategic crossing point between the Po plain in Italy and the Rhône Valley in France. Today, Chignin is best known for its Savoie wines, particularly the Chignin wines , which are produced on an area of approximately 230 hectares by about fifteen winegrowers. The vineyard's limestone slopes, facing south-southwest, are mainly devoted to white grape varieties, particularly Jacquère, while black grape varieties such as Mondeuse, Gamay and Pinot Noir prefer the limestone marl terroirs and the lower slopes. Chignin and Chignin-Begeron are among the 16 geographical designations of the Vin de Savoie appellation.
Discover the Diversity of Savoie Wines
The Savoie vineyards are renowned for their diversity of grape varieties and wine styles. From fresh, fruity whites to full-bodied reds, sparkling and sweet, there's something for everyone. Among the region's most iconic grape varieties are Jacquère, Altesse, Roussanne, Gamay, and Mondeuse. Each variety brings its own distinctive character and expresses its uniqueness in Savoie wines. Whether you prefer light, mineral whites or powerful, structured reds, you're sure to find what you're looking for among the wide range of Savoie wines.
Savoie Chignin Wine: The Authentic Expression of the Terroir
Among the wines of Savoie, Chignin occupies a special place . Located on the sunny slopes of the mountains, the Chignin vineyard produces white wines renowned for their character and elegance. The clay-limestone soils and favorable climatic conditions give Chignin wines a distinctive minerality and subtle floral aromas. If you are looking for a refined and expressive white wine from Savoie, Chignin is an essential choice.
Apremont Vin: an essential Savoyard vineyard
Apremont is one of the most renowned vintages in the Savoie region. Perched on a steep hillside, this vineyard benefits from marl-limestone soil ideal for growing Jacquère, the region's signature grape variety. Apremont Savoie wines are distinguished by their pale color, floral and fruity aromas, and freshness on the palate. They pair perfectly with fish and seafood dishes, as well as local cheeses such as Reblochon or Tomme de Savoie.
The Savoie Vineyards: A Land of Wonder for Wine Lovers
The Savoie vineyards span nearly 2,000 hectares , offering visitors a multitude of wine-growing landscapes to discover. From the sun-drenched slopes of Lake Bourget to the steep slopes of the Alpine mountains, each vineyard reveals a unique story and a singular geography. If you are passionate about the world of wine, a visit to the Savoie vineyards is an unforgettable experience. You can wander between the rows of vines, meet the passionate winemakers, and taste exceptional wines in an enchanting setting.
Savoie Grape Varieties, an Aromatic Palette to Explore
Savoie is a true paradise for native grape varieties. Savoyard grape varieties, such as Jacquère, Altesse, Mondeuse, and Persan, offer a rich and varied aromatic palette. From the delicate fruitiness of the whites to the freshness and precision of the reds, each grape variety expresses its unique personality in Savoie wines. Discover the subtleties of each grape variety and let yourself be seduced by their diversity and aromatic complexity.
A Symphony of Flavors: Savoie Wines at the Table
Savoyard Fondue and Apremont Savoie Wine: A Cheesy Harmony
Immerse yourself in the world of Savoyard fondue, the iconic dish where melted cheese blends with the conviviality of shared meals. Pair this gourmet experience with a glass of Apremont Savoie wine, with its citrus notes and refreshing liveliness. The delicate aromas of the wine blend with the rich, creamy flavors of the melted cheese, creating a truly divine harmony of taste.
Mountain Raclette and Savoie Red Wines: A Tasty Duo
Let yourself be transported to the heart of the mountains with a generous raclette, where melted cheese blends with savory charcuterie. Pair this mountain feast with a Savoie red wine, such as Mondeuse or Gamay. Their soft tannins and fruity notes pair perfectly with the rich flavors, creating an explosion of taste pleasures with every bite.
Trout from Lake Geneva and Savoyard Wines: An Enchanting Freshness
Discover the fresh waters of Lake Geneva with a taste of delicately prepared trout. To pair this delicacy, opt for a Savoyard white wine, such as Altesse or Jacquère. Their floral aromas and liveliness enhance the delicate flavors of the fish, creating a harmonious blend of land and water.
Gourmet Sweets and Roussette de Savoie: A Sweet and Spicy Duo
Finish your meal in style by savoring gourmet regional delicacies. Pair them with a glass of Roussette de Savoie, a sweet white wine with exotic notes. Enjoy a wild blueberry tart or indulge in génépi jam, and let the fruity, sweet aromas of the wine enhance the flavors of these sweet delights.
An Invitation to a Culinary Escape with Chignin Wines
Discover a multitude of food and wine pairing possibilities with Chignerain wines. Whether it's traditional regional dishes or original culinary creations, Chignin Savoie wines will bring a touch of elegance and authenticity to your meals. Let your taste buds guide you and explore the different combinations, creating unique and memorable tasting moments.
Discover the AOC Wines of Savoie
The Viticultural Wealth of Savoie AOC Wines
Savoie AOC wines are renowned for their diversity and quality, reflecting both the region's millennia-old winemaking history and the expertise of the winemakers who cultivate the Alpine lands. With a wide variety of grape varieties, unique vineyard landscapes, and traditional winemaking techniques, these wines offer an exceptional winemaking experience.
The Geography of the Savoyard Vineyards
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Glacial Land Vineyards: The glacial lands along Lake Geneva provide an exceptional setting for viticulture. The vineyards of Abymes, Apremont, and Saint-Jean-de-la-Porte are located in this region, where the pebble-rich moraine soils give the wines a distinctive minerality.
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The Coteaux du Lac du Bourget: The vineyards of Arbin, Chignin, and Chautagne stretch across the sunny hillsides near Lake Bourget. These rolling, well-exposed terroirs allow for optimal grape ripening, resulting in characterful white and red wines.
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The Foothills of the Bauges Massif: The mountainous region of the Bauges Massif is home to the vineyards of Frangy, Jongieux, and Marignan. These steep vineyards, nestled between the mountains, benefit from a cool climate and limestone soils, producing fresh and aromatic wines.
The AOC Grape Varieties of Savoie
Savoie AOC wines are made from a wide range of local grape varieties, each bringing its own personality and characteristic aromas:
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Jacquère: An emblematic grape variety of the region, Jacquère produces fresh, lively, and mineral white wines. With notes of citrus, green apple, and white flowers, these wines express all the typical characteristics of Savoyard terroirs.
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Altesse (Roussette): Roussette is a noble grape variety that produces high-quality white wines. Wines made from Altesse offer a beautiful aromatic complexity with nuances of exotic fruits, almonds, and honey.
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Mondeuse: An iconic red grape variety from Savoie, Mondeuse produces intense and structured red wines. These wines are characterized by their aromas of red fruits, spices, and violets, as well as their ability to age gracefully.
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Gamay: Primarily used in the production of red and rosé wines, Gamay brings fruity notes and a lovely freshness to wines. These wines are often appreciated for their lightness and conviviality.
Organic Savoie wine producing estates in Chignin
The commune of Chignin , in the Savoie wine region, is home to several renowned wineries that are committed to producing organic wines. These wineries emphasize respect for the environment, preservation of the terroir, and the production of quality wines. Here are some renowned wineries in Chignin that specialize in organic wines:
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Our estate, Domaine Denis et Didier Berthollier : located in the heart of Viviers, a small hamlet in Chignerain, our estate, La Combe des Grandes Vignes, practices organic and biodynamic viticulture on our steeply sloping vineyards. We personally work on the vines and pay particular attention to the typical grape varieties of Savoie, such as Altesse, Roussanne, Jacquère, Mondeuse and Persan. Domaine Berthollier produces exceptional vintages that faithfully reflect their terroir. The estate's organic wines are praised by critics for their diversity, energy and consistent quality.
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Domaine Adrien Berlioz - Cellier des Cray: Domaine Adrien Berlioz, located in Chignin, is known for its organic and biodynamic wines. Owner Adrien Berlioz personally cultivates the vines using certified organic and biodynamic practices. The estate showcases typical Savoie grape varieties such as Altesse, Roussanne, Jacquère, Mondeuse, Persan, and Douce Noire. Their vintages brilliantly and faithfully express the unique terroir of Chignin.
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La Gerbelle Claude Quenard et Fils: La Gerbelle is an exceptional vineyard located in Chignin, run by the Quenard family for several generations. The 20-hectare vineyard is certified biodynamic by Demeter and is cultivated with respect for the environment. La Gerbelle offers a wide range of biodynamic wines, highlighting the region's typical grape varieties, such as Altesse, Roussanne, Jacquère, Gamay, Mondeuse, and Pinot Noir. The wines of La Gerbelle reflect the Quenard family's ongoing commitment to quality and excellence in Savoie wines.
These Chignin wineries are renowned for their commitment to organic and biodynamic farming, as well as the exceptional quality of their wines. They are must-visit destinations for wine lovers who wish to taste authentic, environmentally friendly wines that reflect the essence of the Chignin terroir.