64 Nestled between Sierre and Crans-Montana, the Duc family estate offers some wonderful grape varieties from this beautiful terroir. Founded by Jules Duc and producing its first bottles in 1958, for a long time this was the only wine maker in Ollon. It was one of the first in the region to produce Chardonnay. In the 1970s, its founder also contributed to the renaissance of Cornalin, an indigenous wine that now no longer needs to prove itself. A decade later, Jules chose to revive the Rèze, one of the oldest grape varieties in the Alps. The cellar is a story centred around family. After training with the Changins School of Oenology, Jean-Alexis Duc decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and to take over the management of the estate in 1991. “I couldn’t see myself doing anything else. My father worked so hard in his vineyards and he was able to pass on to me his passion for wine and nature”, Jean-Alexis says. “Now my goal is to stay in the tradition, while adding a modern touch,” he continues. At present, he runs an eight-hectare estate in the communes of Sierre, Crans-Montana and Lens. His wife Sonia, who is equally involved, manages the winery alongside her husband. Their son is not left out, and since at the age of fourteen he has also decided to go to oenology school. In the Duc family, the passion for local wines is passed on down from father to son. The wines produced by the Jules Duc et Fils winery are all made from Valaisan grape varieties such as Cornalin, Petite Arvine, Rèze or Humagne rouge. Two years ago the winery began producing sparkling wines, which are proving very popular with their customers. Depending on the grape variety, the wines can be matured in oak barrels or in traditional casks. All the production is done in the cellar. They only cellar their own wines, which are also produced in a gentle manner, and are treated without chemicals. “When I took over the winery, we were in the early stages of integrated production. At present, I try to apply what I call reflexive control, which means that I treat at the right time, with the right product.” In the future, Jean-Alexis wants to ensure the continuity of traditional quality wines, diversify and develop his production in a more ecological direction. He is also keen to help visitors discover the wines of this beautiful region. So, make an appointment for a tasting at the cellar, and let yourself be surprised by these magnificent wines from the region. Jean-Alexis and Sonia Duc will be delighted to welcome you! CAVE JULES DUC ET FILS A PASSION FOR LOCAL WINES FROM FATHER TO SON local life
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