Domaine Le Petit Château
Whispers from Vully: A Hidden Gem
Entering Vully, I found myself amidst rolling hills, serene waters, and the understated grandeur of Mont Vully itself. This tranquil nook, distanced from the spirited pace of renowned wine districts, resonates with a comforting simplicity.
It was in ‘Le Petit Château’ estate where I met Fabrice Simonet, his welcoming smile as genuine as the verdant vines encircling us. That smile narrated a tale not only of one man but of a lineage deeply woven into this land, a tapestry of steadfast tradition and daring innovation. My adventure commenced in the glow of Fabrice’s infectious zeal, a tale braided with the narratives of his kin, each adding distinctive strokes to the vinous mosaic of Le Petit Château.
Fabrice’s homecoming heralded a renaissance, pioneering biodynamic practices in 2010, infusing the winery with his worldly insights. Yet, each blend embodies more than fervor; it encapsulates meticulous craftsmanship, stringent professionalism, manifest in both the vine-laden fields and the shadowed cool of the cellar. This is a perpetual pilgrimage towards impeccability, steered by veneration for the wilds and a piercing clarity on the environmental tribulations of our age. The Simonet lineage, with their unquenchable curiosity for diverse varietals and devotion to conscientious farming, epitomizes the marriage of trailblazing and sustainability.
Beyond the vine rows lies a saga; an inventive father, a large-hearted mother, and a committed brother, all bound by a unified pursuit of excellence. One can sense the adoration infused into each cluster of grapes, the familial Sundays, lakeside chats, hands both weathered and joyous, and an unwavering homage to the giving earth.
In the heart of the harvest season, I found myself an honored guest at the Simonet family table, a convivial affair where gatherers and kin alike converged over a sumptuous feast. It was a time of respite, a communal moment where laughter and delectable dishes were shared with the same munificence as the estate’s wines, including vintages so divine they could make one swoon.
My personal favorites from the estate:
The Freiburger: Vully’s celebrity – The Freiburger stands as a regional hallmark, a true symphony of the terroir’s distinctive subtleties. It greets one with a rejuvenating freshness, bearing scents of yellow fruits, pineapple, notably. The palate reveals a perfect harmony between liveliness and smoothness, intertwining generous hints of pineapple and honey, concluding with a delicately salty and mineral undertone. This wine pairs exquisitely with asparagus, Asian dishes, and white meats.
The Traminer: A Captivating Bouquet – The Traminer is a veritable aromatic gem. Its complex scent signature conjures notes of exotic fruits, roses, and gentle spices, delivering a lush sensory experience. On the palate, it delights with its lychee-like sweetness and a zesty touch of ginger. This wine gracefully complements delicate dishes such as light curries, mild cheeses, or seafood, presenting a flavor symphony that pays tribute to the richness of its soil.
L’Associé: Harmony in Red – L’Associé, one of the estate’s premium blend, dons a deep ruby cloak, hinting at a rich aromatic spectrum. It unfurls intense notes of dark fruits — cherry, blackberry, blackcurrant — veiled in spicy and subtly vanilla nuances. This olfactory symphony extends to the palate, where a dense texture and well-structured tannins unveil profound flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and coffee, all in striking balance. Each vintage of L’Associé is a unique ode to Vully’s soil, a tasting experience that merges strength, elegance, and complexity.
Departing from Le Petit Château, it felt as though I was taking a piece of Vully with me. This quaint region, a hidden treasure, crafts wines that vie in refinement and personality with those from realms far more famed. Here, greatness isn’t measured in square kilometers, but in tales, tastes, and the warmth of those you encounter. Fabrice and Stéphane, with their infectious ardor, are the quintessential envoys of this domain that merits both discovery and reverence. I urge every wine enthusiast and seeker of genuine encounters to explore Vully. And to the Simonet family, I extend my gratitude. Thank you for sharing not just your precious nectar, but also the spirit of your splendid region.
Their website: https://www.lepetitchateau.ch/