The Château d’Auvernier – A castle with history
Château d’Auvernier is much more than just a vineyard – it is a living symbol of winegrowing tradition that has endured for over four centuries. The château has been owned by the same family since 1603. Today, the 17th generation of the Grosjean family proudly and passionately continues this unique history, with the family tradition having been cultivated and passed down through many generations.
The impressive location of the château on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, nestled in a gently undulating landscape, not only shapes the image of the château, but also the character of its wines. The roots of the winery reach deep into the region and reflect a close connection to the history and terroir. The historic walls tell of French commanders, Neuchâtel regents and Prussian administrators, but viticulture has remained constant over the centuries. Everything about the estate reflects the historical and cultural aspects that shape its identity. There are also close relationships with related wine regions and family businesses, which underline the common origin and tradition.
The Grosjean family has managed to combine tradition with modernity. Quality, sustainable cultivation and respect for the grapes are at the heart of their philosophy. For generations, they have worked closely with winegrowers who cultivate the vineyards and contribute significantly to the quality of the grapes. Compared to other wineries or traditions, Château d’Auvernier stands out with its unique combination of history, family tradition and regional roots. Visitors can experience this at first hand – be it on guided tours of the château, the vines or the historic cellar vaults.
The pride of the estate: Œil-de-Perdrix
A real flagship of Château d’Auvernier is the famous Œil-de-Perdrix, a rosé wine full of character made from the Pinot Noir grape variety. The special thing about it is the short maceration period – usually only overnight – which gives the wine its delicate, salmon-colored hue and elegant bouquet; this color is an unmistakable feature of the Œil-de-Perdrix. The typical characteristics of this wine include its fine fruitiness, subtle minerality and balanced structure, which reflect the terroir of the region. There is often a hint of fresh strawberry and citrus on the nose, which gives the wine an elegant liveliness. The production process follows the rule that the grapes are only left on the skins for a short time in order to achieve the desired color and aroma – a tradition that the winery cultivates with great care. The Pinot Noir grape variety has a decisive influence on the style and authenticity of this wine. This specialty is deeply rooted in the tradition of Neuchâtel and has become a trademark of the winery.
The Œil-de-Perdrix is perfect for warm summer evenings or as an accompaniment to fresh dishes such as fish, white meat dishes or regional cheeses. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for a wide variety of dishes and culinary combinations. Its lively freshness, combined with notes of red fruit and a fine minerality, delights wine lovers far beyond Switzerland.
Pinot Noir in its classic red version is also one of the estate’s great strengths. Thanks to the ideal conditions around Lake Neuchâtel and the limestone-rich soils, the Pinot Noir grapes develop their full potential here and produce elegant, velvety wines that impress with their depth and harmonious finish. The quality of the harvest plays a decisive role in the expressiveness and finesse of the Pinot Noir wines.
Wine assortment and other specialties
In addition to the Œil-de-Perdrix and the Pinot Noir, Château d’Auvernier offers a wide range of other fine wines. Particularly noteworthy is the Chardonnay, which develops its elegance and fresh aromas on the chalky soils around the château. Another specialty of the winery is Pinot Gris, which is carefully matured in wooden barrels to produce high-quality wines. The range comes from different parts of the vineyards, with each parcel making its own contribution to the diversity. White wines such as the Neuchâtel Chasselas are also an integral part of the range and reflect the character of the terroir in an unmistakable way. The variety of grape varieties cultivated, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and others, underlines the authenticity and diversity of the estate.
The Château vinifies all its wines with the utmost care and respect for the soil and nature. Each bottle bears the unmistakable style of the house and tells of the region, the château and the passion of the Grosjean family.
Terroir, vines and the climate
The vines of Château d’Auvernier grow on medium-heavy limestone soils, whose mineral composition and depth significantly characterize the terroir and lend the wines a special finesse. The different locations of the vineyards, from the sun-drenched slopes to the cooler heights, have a decisive influence on the harvest, the microclimate and the character of the wines. The proximity to the lake has a temperature-balancing effect and ensures stable temperatures, protecting the vines from extreme weather conditions and allowing the grapes to ripen healthily and aromatically year after year. The subsoil provides the vines with important nutrients and contributes to the complexity of the wines. The subsoil, with its geological diversity, also shapes the development of the terroir and the vitality of the vines. The interplay of soil, climate and vine creates a unique taste profile. The vineyards of Auvernier are the origin and defining element of the wines and reflect the centuries-old winegrowing tradition of the region.
These special conditions shape the aromas and character of the wines. Elegant structures, harmonious acidity and a fine, long-lasting bouquet are typical.
The terroir in Neuchâtel is also known for bringing out the best in Pinot Noir grapes in particular, whether for the classic red wine or the rosé specialty Œil-de-Perdrix.
Visit, tasting and contact by e-mail
Wine lovers can discover the Château d’Auvernier on guided tours and tastings and immerse themselves in the world of Neuchâtel viticulture. Whether it’s a tour of the historic castle rooms, a walk through the well-tended vines or a wine tasting in the cellar – the experience brings the history of this place to life.
Anyone interested can simply contact the winery by email to book a tasting or a visit. The Grosjean family is happy to share their philosophy, their love of wine and the fascinating history of Château d’Auvernier with visitors.
Frequently asked questions about the Château d’Auvernier winery
How old is the Château d’Auvernier?
The castle dates back to 1559, and the wine production has been in the family since 1603.
What is special about the Œil-de-Perdrix?
The Œil-de-Perdrix is a rosé specialty made from Pinot Noir grapes with a short fermentation, which gives it its salmon hue and elegant bouquet.
What wines does Château d’Auvernier produce apart from Œil-de-Perdrix?
In addition to the Œil-de-Perdrix, the winery offers Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Neuchâtel Chasselas as well as other specialties from Neuchâtel.
Is it possible to visit the Château d’Auvernier?
Yes, guided tours and tastings are offered, where you can experience the castle, vines, cellar and wines.
How can I contact the winery?
The best way is by e-mail or telephone – all contact information can be found on the Château d’Auvernier website.