Domaine de la Maison Carrée – The Calcareous Purity of Neuchâtel Elevated

Anchored in the village of Auvernier, in the heart of the canton of Neuchâtel, Domaine de la Maison Carrée is one of the most refined names in French-speaking Switzerland. Owned by the Perrochet family since the 16th century, the estate stands as a benchmark for wines of precision, elegance, and profound terroir expression.

A lakeside terroir with calcareous character

The estate cultivates 10 hectares of vineyards between Auvernier and Hauterive, at 440–510 meters above sea level. The calcareous clay soils, rich in minerals and formed by Rhône glacial moraines, have a naturally high pH (7.6–8.1). This rare configuration imparts saline tension and crystalline purity to the wines, enhanced by a cool, breezy microclimate.

Heritage and philosophy

The name “Maison Carrée” comes from a historic family building. For more than four centuries, the Perrochet family has embodied a patient, artisanal approach to viticulture. The estate is farmed organically and biodynamically, with a strong focus on soil health and natural cycles. Gentle vinification and respectful ageing have earned the domaine its reputation as one of Switzerland’s quiet greats.

Grape varieties & style

• Pinot Noir (≈ 50%) — finesse, structure, and energy
• Chasselas (≈ 35%) — freshness, salinity, precision
• Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Savagnin Blanc (≈ 15%) — aromatic complexity and texture

Natural fermentations, slow vinification, and ageing in stainless steel, foudres, or neutral oak shape a style defined by tension, delicacy, and elegance — reminiscent of Burgundy and Jura, yet unmistakably Neuchâtel in identity.

A rare and sought-after production

Production is intentionally limited, with very small quantities for certain cuvées. This artisanal scale, combined with growing recognition among specialist importers, has earned the domaine a reputation as a collector’s gem.

Pairings & Cellaring