In the beating heart of Valais, at the entrance to the Val d’Hérens, an ancient vineyard has been brought back to life: Clos de la Couta. Located in the municipality of Vex, between 650 and 800 meters in altitude, this single-parcel cuvée embodies the perfect union of terroir and excellence. Restored in 2010 by Domaine Jean-René Germanier, this unique parcel now produces two organic wines with great character: Clos de la Couta, Heida de Vex, and Clos de la Couta, Pinot Noir de Vex.
An exceptional alpine terroir
Clos de la Couta rests on a highly calcareous glacial moraine, typical of the Val d’Hérens. This soil, shaped by glaciers, is a decisive factor in the quality and distinctiveness of the wines. The mineral richness of the limestone, combined with the altitude and the Valais climate, produces wines that are precise, taut, and profound.
The estate has undertaken monumental work to restore the ancient terraces and the famous dry-stone walls, masterpieces of Valais vernacular architecture. These witnesses of a millennia-old agricultural heritage stabilize the steep slopes, create a favorable microclimate for the vines, and shelter precious biodiversity. By restoring these structures with the utmost respect, Domaine Jean-René Germanier has successfully reconciled past and present, nature and culture.
The single-parcel cuvée Heida de Vex: vibrant and subtle
Bio Suisse label
Produced from 11,000 vines planted on the high-altitude terraces of Clos de la Couta, Heida (the local name for Savagnin) stands out for its refined alpine expression.
Aged on lees for six months, with one-third of the cuvée matured in oak, Heida de Vex reveals great aromatic complexity: lemon peel, white-fleshed fruits, and hints of gentian root compose a bouquet that is both vibrant and subtle. On the palate, the wine is elegant and harmonious, with a generous and mineral finish.
The 2022 vintage has earned critical acclaim: 93 points from Robert Parker, 95 points from James Suckling, and a gold medal at the Grand Prix du Vin Suisse 2024. This wine is ideal as an aperitif, paired with grilled or stewed seafood, or soft cheeses.
The single-parcel cuvée Pinot Noir de Vex: fresh and intense
Bio Suisse label
Produced from 6,000 vines on the same parcel, Clos de la Couta, the Pinot Noir de Vex is aged for 12 months in barrels. This deep red wine captivates with a complex nose of blackberry, clove, and black pepper. On the palate, it offers a smooth texture supported by fine and elegant tannins. Its balance between freshness and intensity gives it excellent aging potential, while remaining approachable in its youth.
Praised by top critics, the 2020 vintage received 94 points from James Suckling, 93 points from Robert Parker, and a gold medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards. Served with red meats, spicy dishes, or aged cheeses, this Pinot Noir perfectly showcases the potential of this single-parcel cuvée.
An immersive experience in the heart of the mountains
Clos de la Couta is not just a place of wine production—it’s an invitation to escape. The estate offers a truly exceptional immersive experience, combining a guided tour of the vineyard, a hike through the Borgne gorges, a regional tasting platter, AOP raclette, a visit to the Domaine’s cellar, and a tasting of the estate’s emblematic Clos de la Couta cuvées. All of this unfolds in a spectacular, unspoiled natural setting, where humankind has learned to embrace the mountain and elevate its beauty.
Thanks to the dedication of Domaine Jean-René Germanier, Clos de la Couta now fully embodies the philosophy of single-parcel cuvées: faithfully revealing the soul of a place through meticulous work in both the vineyard and the cellar. This alpine vineyard, passionately brought back to life, now produces organic wines that rank among the most expressive and authentic in Switzerland.