Domaine Piccard Plant Robert Villette Grand Cru Lavaux

The Estate: Domaine Piccard is situated within the terraced vineyard of Lavaux, a wine region in the county of Vaud, Switzerland which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. The estate overlooks the Lake Geneva basin and enjoys a breathtaking panorama. For four generations, the Piccard family has been cultivating and living on this land. Emile Piccard came to work as a winemaker on behalf of the original owners of the estate in the early 1900s. Another century and three generations later, Jean-Christophe ensures the sustainability of this land, as did Robert and Michel before him. More than an occupation, this important responsibility has become a real passion. The wines of the estate have a vibrant and timeless character. Timeless, like the work and the vineyard to which the life of each generation is intimately linked. Wine Maker: Jean-Christophe Piccard Viticulture: Man of the earth that he is and from which he comes, the land is Jean-Christophe Piccard’s first concern. The vineyard, surrounding the estate house, extends over a little more than 2 hectares. Grown for over ten years without herbicides, insecticides, or mineral fertilizers, the plots of land benefit from a rich fauna and flora in which the vine finds a privileged place. Tillage and composting help maintain the balance between the different plants. In this way, the vines produce lower yields, while being more resistant to disease. Grape Variety: Plant Robert (a biotype of Gamay) is a unique specialty of Lavaux. Less than a kilo of grapes per vine. Its beautiful grapes, slightly oblong, are reminiscent of barrels. But it is the subtle and spicy character of this grape variety that makes it original. How did it arrive in the area? The legend speaks of a vine that was "stolen" from its bearer, a Roman soldier... curious. What is certain is that Domaine Piccard planted this variety circa 1995. It is perhaps the most acclimatized red variety; the most regular of the vineyard. Good year, bad weather, severe weather or mild, it produces every year beautiful crops. Vinification: All the wines are genuine artisanal products and are vinified and matured in the cellar located under the estate house. The winemaker’s philosophy is few interventions, but rigorous follow-up. Confidence in the natural mechanisms and virtues of the grapes is a valuable ally. Domaine Piccard believes that producing healthily, without the use of chemicals, is a noble goal. Above all, it is the only way to guarantee the long-term future of our health, and that of our Earth. Aging: Long aging period (12 months) in French oak barrels. Rich in color, aging in the bottle (min. 18 months) highlights the elegant marriage of flavors and tannins, giving the Plant Robert its trademark, unique to the Lavaux. Tasting Notes: A varietal of Lavaux, it expresses its Mediterranean aspect. Spicy and powerful scents, a light structure supported by the patience of being nurtured in barrels, finesse linked to subtle wanderings. An extra color to the palette of terrestrial crus.