The Ramu Family of Domaine du Centaure can trace its lineage back to the late 14th century in Dardagny, Switzerland. The family estate was in operation pre-Escalade. The winery now stands proudly on the hillside of Dardagny overlooking the Chateau. For over 400 years, Domaine du Centaure has served its community and remained a major destination for any true wine lover in Switzerland. 

Edmond Ramu revolutionized wine cultivation in Switzerland by introducing the experimental Guyot pruning process. Edmond later planted the vineyard's first Gamay and Pinot Noir grapes for the winery. He exhibited an unrivaled level of innovation and steadfast dedication to the craft. With the new varietals introduced to the estate, Edmond cemented himself and the family as a role model for all of Switzerland's hand-curated small-batch wineries. 

Charles Ramu took over the estate in 1955 and grew the vineyard to 18 hectares. Charles’s forward-thinking ingenuity added Aligote, Pinot Gris, Gewurtzraminer, and Muscat to the varietals. Charles Ramu went on to win three gold medals at the exhibition in Ljubljana in 1980 for his Chasselas, Pinot Gris, and Gewürtzraminer. In 1981, he added another Gold medal to the collection for his Gewürtzraminer and earned the moniker of “The King” of Gewurtzraminer. 

Claude Ramu took over the estate in 1982. Claude’s tenacity and dedication to his family and wine estate have earned him commercial and critical acclaim. He started producing and bottling the wine on the Estate to ensure the highest standards are met. Claude named the Estate Domaine du Centaure and commissioned the esteemed artist Sierge Drakonov to paint the Greco-Roman deities depicted on the bottle.

Julien Ramu is currently in the process of taking over the estate. His plans for the winery follow in line with the tradition of excellence and innovation his fore-fathers carried. 

Join us as we take the next step in a 400-year legacy!