Marie-Thérèse Chappaz took over her great-uncle's vineyard in Fully, around 40 kilometers south of Lake Geneva, in 1988. On less than 15 hectares in the "Liaudisaz" vineyard, she cultivates some of the most exciting indigenous grape varieties, including Petite Arvine, Humagne Rouge and international varieties such as Syrah, Chasselas and Marsanne. In 1997, she converted her vineyard to biodynamics following a visit to a biodynamics specialist in France. This decision was in line with her philosophy of respect for the environment, life and the terroir. Her winery has been Demeter-certified since 2004.
Marie-Thérèse is a charismatic and successful winemaker whose wines are characterized by power and complexity as well as a clear fruitiness. Her portfolio ranges from red and white wines to noble sweet wines. Particularly outstanding is her sweet wine "Grain par Grain Petite Arvine Domaine des Claives" (2020), which was the first Swiss wine to receive the highest rating of 100 Parker points from the team of renowned US wine critic Robert Parker - a first in Switzerland.
Her wines are strongly influenced by the unique terroir of Valais, which is characterized by the soil, climate and diversity of grape varieties. Chappaz pursues a philosophy close to nature and relies on biodynamics to connect the wine with the environment. She strives for authenticity and quality, listens to nature and works in harmony with the cosmos. Her winemaking is as natural as possible, with minimal intervention and indigenous yeasts. She aims to create wines that reflect the history and terroir of the region.
