Last week, our team at Armadillo had the pleasure of taking a trip to Domaine de Beauvent, a charming vineyard nestled near the shores of Lake Geneva. It was a day filled with discovery, indulgence, and a deepened appreciation for the art of Swiss winemaking—a passion we can’t wait to share with our guests.
The Winemaker’s Tale: A Legacy in Every Bottle
We were warmly welcomed by Domaine de Beauvent’s winemaker, Philippe Durand, a man whose love for the land is evident in every grape he grows. Walking through the vineyards, Philippe spoke of his family’s deep-rooted connection to the soil, a legacy that stretches back generations.
The vineyard itself, with its stunning views of the Alps and Lake Geneva, has been nurtured for decades, producing wines that are not only unique to Switzerland but that also embody a sense of place and history. Philippe shared stories of his childhood, when he learned to tend the vines from his grandfather. “The vineyard teaches patience,” he mused, “It’s about understanding the rhythm of nature and working with it, not against it.”
Philippe’s wines reflect this philosophy. His process is meticulous, focusing on sustainable methods and an intimate knowledge of each vine. He spoke passionately about Swiss varietals like Chasselas, a delicate white wine that thrives in the region’s cool climate, and Gamay, a vibrant red known for its fruity notes and lively acidity. For Philippe, winemaking is an expression of the land—a way to capture the essence of the Swiss Alps in every bottle.
A Taste of Swiss Wine History
Swiss wines have a storied past, one that dates back to Roman times when the first vines were planted on these rolling hills. For centuries, Swiss winemakers have crafted wines for local consumption, keeping the best bottles within the country’s borders—a well-kept secret in the world of fine wines. The distinct microclimates of Switzerland’s wine regions, combined with the winemakers’ devotion to tradition, result in bottles that are as diverse as they are exceptional.
Domaine de Beauvent is a shining example of this heritage. The vineyard’s Chasselas, for instance, is a quintessential Swiss wine: light, crisp, and refreshingly mineral. It pairs effortlessly with the rich flavours of alpine cheeses, delicate fish, and the fresh mountain produce we serve in our chalets. Tasting it at the source, surrounded by the vineyard’s golden-hued leaves, we knew it would make the perfect accompaniment to the menus we craft for our guests.
Crafting Perfect Pairings: From Vineyard to Chalet
After a day of tasting and learning, our thoughts naturally turned to how these exceptional wines could enhance the Armadillo experience. At Armadillo, we believe that a chalet experience isn’t just about the slopes—it’s about savouring every moment, including the meals that follow an incredible day in the mountains.
That’s why our chefs and hosts are dedicated to creating carefully tailored menus, each dish designed to reflect the alpine environment and showcase the region’s finest ingredients. Now, inspired by our visit to Domaine de Beauvent, we are more excited than ever to bring these local wines into our chalets.
Picture this: After an exhilarating day on the slopes of Verbier or Méribel, you return to your chalet, where a Michelin-starred tasting menu awaits. Your evening begins with a delicate amuse-bouche of truffle-infused scallop carpaccio, elegantly paired with a crisp Chasselas from Domaine de Beauvent, its mineral notes enhancing the dish’s umami richness. The next course, a velvety Jerusalem artichoke velouté with caviar, is served alongside a glass of the vineyard’s Chardonnay, its subtle hints of pear and oak balancing the soup’s creamy texture.
The experience continues with a line-caught sea bass, topped with a champagne beurre blanc and foraged herbs, harmoniously paired with a floral Sauvignon Blanc, its lively acidity cutting through the dish’s buttery finish. As the main course arrives—wild venison with black garlic purée, glazed baby root vegetables, and a juniper-infused jus—you are served a robust, earthy Gamay, its complex fruit and spice notes elevating every bite.
Dessert is a symphony of alpine flavours: a honey and thyme panna cotta, paired with a late-harvest Petite Arvine, its sweetness and citrus zest rounding off the evening on an unforgettable high note. Each course, each wine, meticulously curated to evoke the true spirit of the Alps and provide a dining experience that rivals the finest restaurants in Europe.
Our goal is to craft moments like these, where the flavours on your plate and in your glass come together in a symphony of alpine excellence. Every menu is designed with our guests in mind, and we take pride in tailoring the wine pairings to enhance each meal. By partnering with local vineyards like Domaine de Beauvent, we’re able to offer a truly authentic taste of Switzerland that transforms a simple dinner into an unforgettable dining experience.
An Invitation to Experience Swiss Wine at Its Best
Our visit to Domaine de Beauvent was more than just a wine tasting—it was a journey into the heart of Swiss winemaking. We returned inspired by the dedication and passion of Philippe and his team, and with a deeper appreciation for the unique character of Swiss wines. It is this connection to local tradition and quality that we strive to bring to your stay with us.
When you join us at Armadillo, you’re not just skiing the Alps; you’re experiencing the best of what this incredible region has to offer, from the slopes to your dining table. With our chefs’ expertly crafted menus and a curated selection of local wines, every meal becomes an opportunity to celebrate the flavours, history, and heritage of the Swiss Alps.
So, as you plan your next alpine escape, consider not just the skiing, but the complete experience—the wines, the food, and the stories that make every meal in our chalets a true taste of Swiss luxury.
Next up . . . Meribel wine tasting!
Plan Your Winter Holiday in Verbier
Verbier is a stunning Swiss village with a serious ski obsession. It’s a Mecca for those wanting to ski and party hard, with a reputation of having some of the best terrain in Europe and a buzzing après-scene to match. With 410km of piste, a resort height of 3330m and plenty of off-piste opportunities, Verbier truly is the King of Ski Resorts.
Let us help you plan the perfect trip. Contact us to discover your perfect accommodation and prepare to experience Verbier like never before. Stay connected for the latest luxury travel inspiration and ski news by following us on Facebook and Instagram.