On a lovely spring evening, 12 members of the Bailliage met for what has now become their traditional OMGD (Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs) excursion. Answering an invitation from their Vice-Échanson, Thomas Wittlin, they visited the Domaine de la Bourgeoisie in Fribourg.

The venue for the event was in Riex, on the slopes of Lavaux, offering breath-taking, dizzying views of Lake Geneva. On the terrace, which makes the most of this stunning panoramic view, Adeline Dessinet introduced us to one of Switzerland’s oldest wine estates.

The estate’s history began in the 12th century, when the vineyard belonged to the lords of Billens (Glâne). Changing fortunes meant that they had to part with their vines, the building and the press for 680 “Lausanne pounds”. And so it was that the city-state of Fribourg became their proud owner. In the same year, 1362, the city passed on ownership to the Hôpital de Notre-Dame, an important municipal institution that provided valuable services for the city-state.

And if you were wondering what the lines on the labels were about, they refer to the contour lines of the plots of land that the grapes come from.

Beat Blatter, who oversees the cellar and the wine-making process, gave us a tour of his domain - the cellar and its delectable wines. His enthusiasm and his explanations kept us spellbound, as well as giving us the opportunity to taste the nectar held in his vats.

He stayed with us throughout the meal, providing a commentary of the wine and food pairings. The feast was served in the cellar and prepared by the talented Pierre-André Cuénoud of Lavaux Rêves (caterer), delighting our palates. Two grape varieties were served during our visit: Chasselas, a classic Lavaux variety, and Galotta (a cross between Gamay and Ancellotta).

After a convivial evening, packed with gastronomic and vinous highlights, all the attending members went home delighted.

Gabriele Wittlin
Vice-Chargée de Presse