In the heart of the Swiss canton of Graubünden lies the charming village of Malans. Steeped in winemaking tradition, with rolling hillsides and fertile vineyards… Malans is the picturesque backdrop for one family’s extraordinary journey in winemaking: Liesch Bioweine.
From father to son, from Louis Liesch Senior to Louis Liesch Junior, the family are true pioneers in the Swiss wine industry. From early on, they carved out their legacy as a bio-viticulture trailblazers. Over 37 years ago, Louis Liesch made waves! He became the first in Malans to achieve Demeter certification for his vineyard. That was long before biodynamic guidelines were established.
Louis spent the past three decades crafting exceptional organic wines that have captivated palates and garnered acclaim both at home and abroad.
A Legacy of Innovation
Louis Liesch’s journey in winemaking began in 1987. That is when he made the bold decision to transition his family’s vineyard to organic farming practices. A move that was virtually unheard of at the time.
Undeterred by skeptics, Louis forged ahead with his vision of sustainable viticulture. By eschewing synthetic pesticides and fertilisers in favour of natural, environmentally friendly methods.
Organic Excellence
Under Louis Liesch’s stewardship, the vineyards of Malans have flourished. They are producing grapes of unparalleled quality and purity. By nurturing the land and respecting the delicate balance of nature, Louis has cultivated a diverse array of grape varietals. These include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Müller-Thurgau. Thus showcasing the unique terroir of Graubünden.
The Art of Orange Wine
In recent years, Louis Liesch Junior has garnered attention for his innovative approach to winemaking. Particularly with his acclaimed line of Orange Wines. Unlike traditional white wines, which are made from pressed grape juice, Orange Wines are crafted using extended skin contact. That results in a rich amber hue and complex flavour profile.
Louis Liesch’s Orange Wines are a testament to his creativity and ingenuity, offering a sensory experience that transcends convention. From the intense aromas of dried fruits and spices to the vibrant acidity and textural richness on the palate, each sip of Orange Wine reveals a new layer of complexity and intrigue.
A Commitment to Quality
Throughout his career, Louis Liesch has remained steadfast in his commitment to quality and authenticity. Every bottle of wine bearing his name is a testament to his passion for the craft and his dedication to producing wines of exceptional character and distinction.
For Louis Liesch, winemaking is more than just a profession—it is a way of life, a labor of love that connects him to the land and the people who enjoy his wines. As he looks to the future, he sees endless possibilities and opportunities to further elevate the art of Swiss winemaking, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Pioneering Spirit: Louis Liesch’s Legacy in Swiss Winemaking
Louis Liesch’s journey wasn’t without challenges. He faced criticism and even lawsuits from neighbors who doubted his methods. Yet, over time, his organic grapes proved healthier and more resilient, winning over skeptics and inspiring a new generation of winemakers. Today, Louis serves as a mentor to many in the region, sharing his expertise and passion for sustainable viticulture.
While rooted in tradition, Louis Liesch isn’t afraid to experiment. His signature rosette-adorned bottles contain a fiery blend of Blauburgunder, Chardonnay, Riesling-Silvaner, and Pinot Gris. Notably, his “Fuoco di Cabernet,” made from the rare Cabernet Jura grape, showcases his knack for innovation and creativity.
Louis Liesch remains true to his roots, eschewing trends like sparkling wines in favour of traditional still varieties. However, his cellar is a testament to his spirit of experimentation, with barrels of Pinot Gris aging in acacia wood and orange wine crafted from innovative techniques.
Liesch Bioweine: Signature Blend
Liesch Bioweine puts forward a fabulous signature blend: Der Pioneer Pinot. This wine stands out as a tribute to Louis Liesch Senior and is a symbol of his pioneering spirit. Crafted from Blauburgunder grapes, “Der Pioneer” embodies the essence of Malans’ terroir and Louis’s unwavering dedication to quality.
Among his cellar treasures are the Pinot Noir Spätlese 2019 and the Pinot Gris Akazienbarrique (orange) 2022. Both reflect Louis’s commitment to excellence and innovation. And when it comes to pairing his wines, nothing beats the local delicacy of Mama’s Churer Fleischtorte with a glass of Schiller.
Liesch Bioweine has garnered acclaim from GaultMillau-rated chefs like Sven Wassmer, Benedikt Voss, and Mathieu Courrier, who recognise the exceptional quality and versatility of his creations.
For wine enthusiasts and explorers alike, a visit to Louis Liesch’s vineyard is a journey through the rich tapestry of Swiss winemaking. With each sip, you’ll taste the passion, dedication, and innovation that define Louis Liesch’s remarkable legacy in the world of wine. Cheers to the pioneer!