The Vines of Paradise
Domaine Les Vignes de Paradis, located in Ballaison near Thonon-les-Bains in Haute-Savoie, is a family business that has spanned more than five generations. Currently managed by winemaker Dominique Lucas, the estate extends over 8 hectares of vines spread over two appellations, Crépy and Marin. Dominique Lucas is a discreet and perfectionist winemaker, who made a transition from the Burgundy vineyard to cultivate these Savoyard plots. His previous experience as head of cultivation in Beaune and Vosne-Romanée made him aware of the economic pressures placed on the vines, which encouraged him to seek other horizons.
The particularity of the Vignes du Paradis estate lies in the variety of grape varieties it cultivates, ranging from local grape varieties, such as Chasselas, to grape varieties from other regions, such as Savagnin, Pinot Gris and Gamay. Here the vine growing process is based on the principles of biodynamics, without any use of weedkillers or chemical pesticides as well as respect for nature and the local ecosystem. The vines are cared for using mountain plant preparations and medicinal essential oils to protect the rows.
As for Dominique Lucas' work in the cellar, he is meticulous, focused on gentle extractions to produce fine and delicious wines. The wines are aged in a variety of containers depending on the grape variety and the terroir. He uses traditional oak barrels, ovoid vats (concrete eggs) and amphorae. All winemaking follows the lunar calendar, and the estate has voluntarily freed itself from the constraints of appellations. The resulting wines are freer than ever, vibrant with energy and purity.
The wines of Domaine Les Vignes de Paradis are characterized by their luminosity, their radiance and their great elegance. The Chasselas, in particular, are both gourmet, generous and express the Allobroges terroir in a unique way. Among the most notable vintages are Chasselas Marin, Un Matin face au Lac and Un P'tit Coin de Paradis. In addition, surprising vintages such as Amphore, Savagnin, Pinot Gris Macération and Gamay Marin also quickly caught our attention.
Dominique's commitment to biodynamic cultivation, labeling outside of appellations and the use of various containers in the cellar testify to his unique vision of viticulture. The resulting wines are a beautiful celebration of the region, offering a unique expression of Chasselas and other Savoie grape varieties.
