Wines Neuchâtel PDO Château D’Auvernier - Sélection Sous Bois - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Château d’Auvernier’s Cuvée Sélection Sous Bois 2021 is a fine example of Neuchâtel AOC’s white wines, embodying both precision and finesse. Typically, this cuvée is crafted predominantly from Chasselas, a grape that excels in the Swiss Jura’s limestone soils. The “Sous Bois” mention indicates partial or full maturation in oak barrels, lending the wine added depth, nuanced structure, and gently spicy undertones; a welcome complement to Chasselas’ usual delicacy and fresh orchard-fruit profile. The 2021 vintage, marked by moderate summer temperatures and a balanced growing season, gives wines of particular purity, expressive nose, and elegant freshness.

The Neuchâtel region lies in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, sweeping across gentle slopes by the northern shores of Lake Neuchâtel. This area benefits from a cool continental climate, influenced by the lake’s tempering effect, which preserves acidity and slow ripening. The vineyards are rooted in limestone-rich soils, imparting a distinct minerality and clarity to local wines. Swiss winegrowing here boasts centuries of tradition, with meticulous vineyard practices and a focus on expressing terroir in every bottle.

For food pairing, this Cuvée Sélection Sous Bois’s refined yet subtle complexity makes it an ideal match for freshwater fish—lightly grilled perch or local sandre would be perfect. Classic Swiss cheese dishes such as a fondue moitié-moitié or a mild raclette enhance the wine’s creamy, mineral notes without overpowering them. For regional fare, try it alongside a vegetable tart or lake fish meunière for a true Neuchâtel experience.

To fully appreciate its aromatic nuance and freshness, serve this wine chilled but not too cold, ideally between 10 and 12°C. A gentle decanting may help express its subtle oak-derived notes. Enjoy it young to savour its brightness, though one or two years of cellaring can see its harmony further blossom.