Weingut Besson-Strasser

Winemaker Profile | Zurich, Switzerland

Nadine and Cédric Besson-Strasser, who met while studying oenology at Changins, have been at the helm of the family estate in Uhwiesen, in Zurich’s wine country close to the Rhine Falls, since 2005. Under their stewardship, the domaine has steadily moved towards biodynamic viticulture, the aim being to produce wines that are as unadorned and faithful to their origins as possible.

The estate’s vineyards, planted on 6 hectares scattered across the Zurich region, and just over a hectare in Schaffhausen, accommodate both native and international varieties. Particularly noteworthy are Räuschling, the traditional cépage of AOC Zurich, alongside Pinot Noir and the less usual Malbec. Standout bottlings include the Pinot Noir Chlosterberg, the Pinot Noir Albi, and the white Fumé.

The reds at Besson-Strasser possess admirable poise and stuffing and suit ageing particularly well. Very minimalist winemaking also allows for wines with full aromatic expression that speak unimpededly to their Swiss origin. 

The Besson-Strassers’ philosophy is rooted in a holistic view of viticulture: observing rather than intervening, supporting rather than forcing. Biodynamic preparations are part of the regimen, as is a readiness to work with anything the unpredictable weather has in store for them. The ultimate aim at Besson-Strasser is wines that articulate both their terroir and the cultural heritage of the Zurich region. Their methods deliver a set of wines that carry remarkable freshness and expressivity all while remaining balanced and polished.