Denis GIRARDET 

Denis Girardet’s 9-hectare vineyard is situated right in the heart of Russin. The grape varieties grown there include Gamay, Chasselas, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Gamaret, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc. As well as wine, Denis also grows cereals and has a few apple trees from which he makes his own apple juice.

His wife Nicole is a full partner in the business and looks after the accounts and the farm’s administrative side, as well as running the farmers’ market every Saturday from 9am to 2pm, where she sells delicious homemade produce such as braided bread, loaves and seasonal vegetables. But that’s not all… She also organises brunch every Saturday and on the last Sunday of the month, from March to mid-December. Don’t forget to book if you’d like to enjoy the Girardets’ brunch! You’ll be treated to homemade delicacies such as tarts, verrines, chocolate mousses, charcuterie, and unlimited apple or grape juice. In short, there’s something for everyone.

But before taking over the family estate, Denis first completed an apprenticeship as a car painter, did his military service, and then went to work with his brother in the United States for 18 months, in the Napa Valley area. He returned to Switzerland in 1979 to start working with his father and one of his brothers. He then took over the business in 1995 when his father retired. In four years’ time, it will be his turn to step down and take a bit of a break.

Reserved, yet with a generosity that is evident at first glance, he believes that to be a good winemaker, one must be approachable and meticulous in one’s work. Denis particularly appreciates the independence the profession offers, despite certain obligations. He also enjoys reaping the rewards of his labour – the grape harvest – even though this period is not always easy to get through due to the vagaries of the weather.​

Denis has been a winemaker at La Cave de Genève for as long as he can remember. He even fondly recalls emptying the very last crate of grapes himself during the final delivery to the old winery in Satigny.

It has to be said that, with retirement approaching, Denis is relieved to be stepping down soon. He is concerned not only about the future of his wonderful profession, but also about the next generation, particularly with regard to the ever-increasing administrative workload.

His favourite wines? Definitely the Baccarat, the Gamaret and, for whites, the Chardonnay!