Discover Germany | Special Theme | Culinary Indulgence and Lifestyle – Made in Switzerland 2022
La Cathédrale du Vin: Château Faugères, St. Emilion. Photo: JB Nadeau
FROM THE VINE INTO THE GLASS Wine shop Denz Weine in Zurich holds the great privilege of being able to offer wines from their own family production. Their uncompromising dedication to outstanding quality also extends to the selection of other wineries and to their wine auction house.
and its restaurant, which has been awarded a Michelin star, is truly special,” recommends the managing director with a smile.
TEXT: MARILENA STRACKE
During a conversation it is immediately apparent that wine is close to her heart: “Almost nothing beats a glass of good wine in the company of friends or tasting new wines with other wine connoisseurs.” It’s that genuine appreciation for wine that runs across their hand-selected range, and which brings the best from France, Italy and Spain to the shelves at Denz Weine in Zurich.
In 1994, Denz Weine was founded as a wine trading business and auction house by Silvio Denz. In 2018, the second generation took over, with son Claudio Denz and his wife Florentina, who recently became managing director, continuing the family’s success story. The motto remains the same, however: “Viticulture is nothing without great terroir.” Aside from the family-produced wines, their portfolio also includes exclusive representations of winemakers from France, Italy and Spain. Big players such as Peter Sisseck and Alvaro Palacios are among them. A trip through their own vineyards starts in Southern Tuscany. Winery Montepeloso is home to expressive wines which are shaped by the Mediterranean climate and represent their origin to perfection. 26 | Issue 89 | January 2022
The journey through the unique Denz family vineyards continues: “In St. Emilion, we introduce the wines of the Châteaux Cap de Faugères, Faugères and Péby Faugères,” Florentina Denz says. “Swiss architect Mario Botta designed the cellar, which became famous far beyond the Bordeaux borders as ‘the cathedral of wine’. The same is true for the wines. The 2005 Château Péby Faugères joined the world-famous club of wines that were scored 100 points by Robert Parker. Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her crown jubilee with a glass of Château Cap de Faugères.” Next up is Sauternes, where sweet, worldclass wines are being produced. Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey 1st grand cru classé is regarded as one of the finest. “Aside from the wine, it’s also a marvellous place to enjoy gourmet cuisine. A visit to Hotel Lalique
Managing director Florentina Denz. Photo: Denz Weine
