Six wines of Marina Bovard, Epesses, Lavaux

Marina Bovard:
A Vigneronne of Lavaux

March 8 is International Women’s Day.

A few years ago, we had a thoughtful discussion in our Foodies group about what that day should really mean. Since then, I have felt that if I were to mark it, I should do so intentionally.

This year, I want to introduce you to Marina Bovard (middle) in Epesses.

Image credit: Annalisa Capponi

Marina is one of the first and one of the last true vigneronnes of Lavaux.

That word matters.

Here, a vigneron or vigneronne is not simply someone who owns vines. It is the person who grows the grapes, makes the wine, cellars it, markets it and sells it. The one who carries the entire craft from vine to bottle.

As wineries become larger and more specialised, there are fewer and fewer people who do everything themselves. There are women working in wine in Lavaux, of course. But very few who carry the whole responsibility the way she does.

I found Marina by accident.

Years ago, I was searching Google Maps for a place to host small private groups. I needed a garden, a WC, good wines, and ideally a vintner who would be happy to present them. I saw her small pin on the map.

I tried to find her online. There was no website. No social media. Nothing.

So I called the number listed.

She said, “Sure. You should come by.”

The next day I ducked around a corner, passed through an archway, and found a peaceful courtyard that feels tucked into another time.

Since then, I have hosted countless small groups in her garden. When a cycling company asked me to create shorter but more regular tastings once a week, I called her. She simply said yes. On the day of each group she joins in, helps, and makes things run smoothly. When we had twenty cyclists scheduled and rain threatened to ruin everything, she helped me reorganise the plan and we hosted in the Caveau des Vignerons instead.

She shows up.

That matters to me.

There is another detail I love. Her house in Epesses used to be a convent.

We often hear about the monks of Lavaux who terraced these slopes, but we rarely hear about the nuns. Where are their stories? When I learned this, it felt like something worth exploring.

We have decided to begin researching the history of her house and the women connected to it. It feels like the right moment to start telling that story.

I took this video on a beautiful day in February.

Marina Bovard, International Women’s Day, and EdibleSwitzerland

In honour of International Women’s Day, we are opening a small window where you can buy her wine online. Here, on EdibleSwitzerland. It’s something new we are trying. When I pitched it to her, she said: “Let’s give it a try.” I like her adventurous attitude.

Until 23:59 on 10 March 2026, a Discovery Carton of six of Marina’s wines are available here for CHF 100 (plus delivery if you choose it).

What’s Inside

A curated selection that moves from bright Lavaux whites to structured reds.

Epesses 2024
Clean, stony and alive with citrus and crushed shells — the kind of white that tastes like sun on terraced stone.
Pair with: lake fish, raclette, oysters, or a simple plate of hard Alpine cheese.

Calamin Grand Cru 2024
Broader and more structured, with ripe pear, subtle salt and that unmistakable Grand Cru grip that lingers.
Pair with: roast chicken, veal in cream sauce, mushroom tart, or aged Gruyère.

Chasselas Montreux 2024
Soft blossom and white peach over a quiet mineral spine — delicate but not fragile.
Pair with: aperitif boards, asparagus, freshwater fish, or a spring risotto.

Pinot Noir d’Epesses 2023
Bright red cherries, forest floor and a whisper of spice — light on its feet but rooted in earth.
Pair with: roast duck, charcuterie, mushroom dishes, or grilled vegetables.

Cuvée Marina Pinot Noir–Gamaret–Garanoir 2023 (Montreux)
Juicy, darker-fruited and gently spiced, with a warmth that feels like late afternoon light on the vines.
Pair with: grilled lamb, sausages from the fire, slow-cooked stews, or a proper burger.

Merlot Montreux 2022 (aged in oak)
Deep plum, cocoa and cedar, with firm structure and quiet confidence from time in oak.
Pair with: beef short ribs, game, hard cheeses, or anything cooked over fire.

Six bottles. A full introduction to her work.

Delivery anywhere in Switzerland is approximately CHF 14. A pick-up option is also available.

Bonus opportunity

Buyers will have priority access to register for a special Old Chasselas tasting during her Portes Ouvertes in November.

This is not a sale. Nor do I make a commission on any sales that happen. It is simply my way to support a woman who quietly carries a piece of Lavaux forward.

Orders close on Sunday, 10 March at 23:59.