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Lot 10: A Glimpse into the Legacy of Swiss Wine


Switzerland is renowned for its attention to detail and production of superior quality goods such as chocolate and watches—its wine is no different. With a long history of viticulture dating back to 800 BC before the time of the Romans when the Celtics occupied the land, Switzerland's winemaking is its best kept secret!
 
Immerse yourself in this history with a private tasting hosted by siblings Claude and Francine Ramu of Domaine du Centaure, the estate belonging to the Ramu Family which traces its lineage back to the late 14th century in Dardagny, Switzerland and has been in operation pre-Escalade. 
 
Your hosts have arranged lodging for up to two nights at La Ferme Pittet, a nearby bed and breakfast on a local fruit and animal farm. 
 
Domaine du Centaure is located near the border of France and Switzerland, just 30 minutes west of Geneva. Add this rustic getaway to your next trip to eastern France or Switzerland, and discover what Swiss wine has to offer.
Lot 10: A Glimpse into the Legacy of Swiss Wine
 
Switzerland is renowned for its attention to detail and production of superior quality goods such as chocolate and watches—its wine is no different. With a long history of viticulture dating back to 800 BC before the time of the Romans when the Celtics occupied the land, Switzerland's winemaking is its best kept secret!
 
Switzerland’s winegrowing heritage resonates with the diversity seen through its four national languages, variety in landscapes, climate regions and customs. Over 250 grape varietals can be found growing on the 15,000 hectares of vineyards owned by 1,500 producers throughout Switzerland, a concentration of genetic diversity that is amongst the highest in the world. The excellence of Swiss wine is unbeknownst to many mainly due to the rarity of its exportation, and the people of Switzerland consume so much wine (about 38 bottles per person each year) that what is produced is not enough.
 
Immerse yourself in this history with a private tasting hosted by siblings Claude and Francine Ramu of Domaine du Centaure, the estate belonging to the Ramu Family which traces its lineage back to the late 14th century in Dardagny, Switzerland and has been in operation pre-Escalade. For over 400 years, Domaine du Centaure has served its community and remained a major destination for any true wine lover in Switzerland. In fact, they played a major role in the commercialization of Swiss wine, being one of the first to put wine in bottles rather than serving from barrels. The winery stands proudly on the hillside of Dardagny overlooking the Chateau, and Claude and Francine will lead you on a walking tour through the vineyards to see the views of the village and mountain ranges surrounding it.
 
Savor a lunch at L'Auberge de Dardagny, a charming local restaurant serving French-Swiss fare. After enjoying the relaxed village ambiance, Émilienne Hutin Zumbach, one of the first female winemakers in Europe who operates with biodynamic practices and makes wine from organic grapes, will indulge you in a final tasting at Domaine les Hutins. 
 
Your hosts have arranged lodging for up to two nights at La Ferme Pittet, a nearby bed and breakfast on a local fruit and animal farm that produces delectable homegrown jams, jellies, and eau-de-vies. 
 
Domaine du Centaure is located near the border of France and Switzerland, just 30 minutes west of Geneva. Add this rustic getaway to your next trip to eastern France or Switzerland, and discover what Swiss wine has to offer.
 
Inclusions:
  • Your choice of one or two nights for two guests at La Ferme Pittet, a Dardagny bed and breakfast on a fruit and animal farm, with breakfast included
  • Two private tastings with Claude and Francine Ramu and Émilienne Hutin Zumbach, and walking tour through the vineyards with views of the village and mountain ranges surrounding it
  • Lunch at L'Auberge de Dardagny
Limitations
  • Does not include airfare, ground transportation, or additional meals. A car rental is recommended for the best experience
  • To be scheduled on a mutually agreeable date (summer is encouraged)
  • Expires September 2023
Donors: Domaine Dardagny and Domaine du Centaure
Opening Bid: $600
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