Wineries of the Montreux Riviera

Nestled along the shores of Lake Geneva, the Montreux Riviera is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich viticultural heritage. Among its historical family-owned wineries is Domaine Bovy, a vineyard established in the 16th century and purchased by the Bovy family in 1779. Situated on a prominent viewpoint known as the balcony of Lake Geneva, the estate boasts breathtaking vistas.

Alexandra Bovy, co-owner and representative of the vineyard, highlights the dynamic beauty of the region, stating, “The scenery can change 10 times a day depending on the weather and season. But my favorite moments remain sunrise and sunset.”

A Legacy of Winemaking

Domaine Bovy cultivates an array of grape varieties, including the famed Chasselas, which has been part of Switzerland’s wine tradition since the 12th century. The vineyard also produces innovative varietals like Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Gamaret.

Additionally, the winery is celebrated for its unique artistic tradition of painting barrels, initiated by Maurice Bovy in the 1940s. Following his death in 1995, his grandson Maxim Bovy carried on this legacy. Alexandra Bovy fondly notes, “His first barrel painted a portrait of Maurice Bovy to pay tribute to his grandfather,” showcasing the family’s commitment to preserving their historical practices.

Cultural Attractions and Festivals

The Montreux Riviera is not only known for its wines but also for its vibrant cultural scene. Since 1967, the region has hosted the prestigious *Montreux Jazz Festival*, attracting music lovers from around the globe. Beside this, guide Pascal Pulley leads thrilling snowmobile and e-bike adventures through the scenic vineyards and charming lakeside towns.

The area has also inspired legends, as iconic musicians like Freddie Mercury recorded their work here, famously reflecting on the region’s magical atmosphere in their song “A Winter’s Tale.” Visitors can immerse themselves in this artistic ambiance across various locations.

Diverse Dining Experiences

In addition to the rich cultural history, Montreux offers extraordinary dining options. One standout is Kaiseki by Manab, located at the Belle Époque Hotel d’Trois Couronnes. This waterfront restaurant, under the helm of Chef Alistair Long, specializes in traditional Japanese *kaiseki* cuisine, which emphasizes the harmony of flavor, texture, and color in each dish.

Long, originally from Scotland, has a profound passion for Japanese culinary art. He describes his journey: “I happened to fall in love with Japanese cuisine… Japanese cuisine shows that simplicity can give guests the greatest complexity and many emotions.”

Manab’s menu features unique combinations that captivate the senses, such as freshly prepared dishes utilizing local ingredients and bold flavors crafted with precision.

A Community of Art and Learning

Montreux also serves as an educational hub, where Chef Long has taught modern Japanese cuisine at a leading hotel management institution. He emphasizes the significance of learning and discovery, invoking the restaurant’s name, “Manab,” which means “to learn” in Japanese.

Life in Vevey, nearby Montreux, continues to ignite Long’s creativity. He relishes in the vibrant community atmosphere and the enriching interactions with friends and colleagues while navigating the charming city.