Our founder, Léonide Maye, a true pioneer and visionary, was quick to understand the treasure hidden in these beautiful, sun-drenched grapes that color our landscapes with the passing seasons. The generous earth and the extraordinary complexity of its soils, worked with love, passion and respect, give birth to exceptional wines of varied expression. Today, the fourth generation has taken over, and Roger Remondeulaz is witness to the success of this adventure.
Our History
It all began in 1889, in the second half of the 19th century. For most of Europe’s major wine-producing regions, the years 1860 to 1880 were divided between plague and manna. The plague was the diabolical phylloxera, the destructive insect that threatened the vine with extinction. Grafting on American rootstocks was not the answer until around 1880. The manna was the railroad, which gave a fantastic boost to the mass marketing of products and brought the Valais out of its isolation.
The first train made its entrance into Sion in 1860. While Chamoson, where he resides, opposed the construction of a station on its territory, Léonide Maye wanted to take advantage of the opportunity offered by a railway connection. He established his business close to the Riddes station. The village is located on the frontlines of the slopes of Vétroz, Leytron, Chamoson and Ardon. All roads lead to Riddes…
Around the same time, Valais underwent transformation. Europe discovered the beauty of its alpine landscapes. Whymper triumphed on the Matterhorn in 1865, attracting a crowd of tourists in his footsteps. The Seiler family brilliantly foresaw the Swiss hotel industry. In Monthey, Chippis,and Viège, electricity sparked industrial development. It was during this time that some major wine companies were founded, with pioneers recognizing that wine would be one of the key assets of the Valais economy in the 20th century.
One of the oldest wine cellars in Valais
MAYE is one of the oldest wineries in Valais. In existence for over 130 years, our adventure is steeped in history and archives. It’s with great pleasure that we invite you to immerse yourself in our history.
A Family Winery in the Hands of the Fourth Generation
The winery’s founder, Léonide Maye, a true pioneer and visionary, was quick to understand the treasure hidden in these beautiful, sun-drenched bunches that colour our landscapes with the passing seasons. His daughters, Cécile and Germaine Maye, carried on their father’s visionary spirit. In 1920, they packed their suitcases and travelled across Europe to discover new flavours, sending their reports back to Léonide. And so the TELEGRAM range was born, reviving this family history.
Today, the fourth generation has taken the reins and Roger Remondeulaz stands as a witness to the success of this journey. Claire, Roger’s daughter, proudly represents the future of this magnificent family legacy.
Respect for the vines is our priority
The rich land and the extraordinary complexity of its soils, worked with love, passion, and respect, allow us to create exceptional wines with diverse expressions, some of which are unique in the world. This result is the product of the expertise of dozens of winemakers who nurture their vineyards and our oenologist, Alexandre Gillioz, to whom they entrust their harvest. The grapes are vinified, the wines are aged and bottled on the property, which enables us to guarantee impeccable quality.”