The champagne

Zürcher-Gehrig AG is a Switzerland-based importer and distributor specializing in grower-producer Champagne. Founded in 1987, the company focuses on sourcing Champagne directly from small, independent producers located in France’s Champagne region. Headquartered in Switzerland, it serves a national clientele through selective distribution channels.

The company was established by Hans Zürcher in 1987. Initially operating within a niche market, Zürcher concentrated on importing Champagne from artisanal producers who both cultivate their own grapes and produce their own wines. His approach aimed to introduce the Swiss market to grower-producer Champagne as an alternative to the offerings of larger commercial Champagne houses. The business later transitioned to new leadership under Jens and Sarah Behrendt. Under their management, Zürcher-Gehrig AG expanded its network while maintaining its emphasis on grower Champagne. This period marked the company’s growth in market presence and its emergence as a recognized distributor of grower Champagne in Switzerland.

The Champagne in its portfolio typically originates from small, family-run estates. These producers manage their vineyards independently, often practicing sustainable viticulture and employing traditional or low-intervention winemaking techniques. Unlike large producers who may blend grapes from various sources, grower-producers offer wines with more specific geographic and stylistic identities. The company selects producers based on criteria such as production quality, sustainability practices, and vineyard traceability. Its curated catalogue emphasizes Champagne that reflects the unique characteristics of specific vineyards or villages.

Zürcher-Gehrig AG focuses exclusively on grower Champagne—wines produced from grapes grown on the producer’s own land. This approach allows for comprehensive control over vineyard practices, from grape variety selection to harvest timing. As a result, the wines tend to reflect the distinct environmental conditions and farming methods of their origin. In contrast to larger houses that prioritize consistency and blending across vintages, grower-producers often highlight single vintages and plots. These Champagnes typically vary year to year and offer a greater expression of terroir. The represented producers tend to favor minimal-intervention methods, such as natural fermentation, low sulfur usage, and limited or no sugar additions. These techniques aim to preserve the wine’s original character and reduce external influence during production.

The grower Champagne segment has gained increased international recognition for its emphasis on provenance and individual expression. While large Champagne houses dominate global exports, grower-producers have established a niche among wine professionals and consumers seeking terroir-driven wines. In Switzerland, Zürcher-Gehrig AG has contributed to the visibility and accessibility of grower Champagne. Through direct sourcing and a focused selection, the company supports a broader understanding of Champagne as an agricultural and artisanal product.