@Crédit Mathieu Garçon
A decision like this should come as no surprise. Caroline Frey’s choice is the continuation of a journey guided by listening to oneself and respecting one’s essential needs, at a time marked by illness. Life is made up of cycles, of phases when we invest body and soul in a project that suits us. But even these phases come to an end.
At the age of 47, Caroline has decided to retire, with immediate effect, from the management of the Paul Jaboulet Aîné (Rhône Valley), Château La Lagune (Bordeaux) and Château Corton C (Burgundy) estates.
She will now devote herself to her business in Fully, Switzerland, where she will take charge of five hectares of vines previously managed by Benoît Dorsaz, which will now be cultivated under the name Domaine Caroline Frey.
“After 20 years of passionate commitment to Château La Lagune, Paul Jaboulet Aîné, La Chapelle Hermitage and Domaine Caroline Frey, life recently forced me to take an abrupt break. This difficult moment prompted me to re-examine my choices, my balance and my priorities.Today, with emotion, I’ve decided to refocus on my Swiss vineyards, and to detach myself – without ever really moving away – from the estates I’ve loved for so long… I’ll continue to bring this passion to life in my Swiss vineyards, with all the love, sincerity and commitment that wine deserves. It’s not an end, it’s a continuation.
The strength of our story is also that of our family. My father, Jean-Jacques, founder of our family group, has been with us from day one. His vision, steadfastness and deep commitment are the foundation on which we have built everything. At his side, my sister Delphine, who has been involved for many years, will continue to bring the soul of our homes to life. Today, she is fully involved in the vision, strategic direction and image of our estates. She embodies continuity with accuracy, energy and sensitivity.” (Caroline Frey)
What’s next for Les Domaines ? No break with the past, but continuity with care !
The new technical director will be introduced by his sister Delphine and father Jean-Jacques, with whom the decision was carefully considered.
“Today, I’m delighted to be taking care of these homes and continuing what my sister built with passion. These are homes rich in history, supported by formidable teams who instill a wonderful dynamic. We have some great projects ahead of us” (Delphine Frey)
Caroline Frey: a pioneer of sustainable viticulture
@Crédit Lycia Walter
Daughter of Jean-Jacques Frey, real estate entrepreneur and founder of the eponymous group, Caroline Frey has established herself in just a few years as a key figure in contemporary French viticulture. Known for her innovative and sensitive management of prestigious estates, she is now a recognized ambassador for biodynamic viticulture.
Originally from Champagne, she grew up in the heart of the vineyards acquired by her family. She chose a scientific career path, culminating in an honours degree in oenology from Bordeaux University, where she trained alongside Grand Master Denis Dubourdieu.
In 1999, she took over the management of Château La Lagune, signing her first solo vintage in 2004. In 2006, she added the famous Paul Jaboulet Aîné to her portfolio. Next came Château Corton C in Burgundy, then, from 2016, vineyards in Switzerland.A key step came in 2023 with the founding of Domaine de La Chapelle, bringing together two emblematic cuvées:
Hermitage La Chapelle and Le Chevalier de Sterimberg.
Her work has received numerous critical acclaims. She is recognized for her exacting standards, technical rigor and commitment to sustainable farming practices that respect the terroir. Under her leadership, conversion to organic, then biodynamic, farming became a priority, with official certifications obtained first at La Lagune in 2016, then at Jaboulet and Corton.
Its approach is based on rigorous oenology, yet open to the emotions that wine can convey. Thanks to in-depth technical expertise and targeted investments, it reveals the pure expressivity of the soils with finesse. Its wines, silky, agile and aromatically faithful, express an inimitable, refined style.