The history of this 170-hectare estate dates back to 1927 when Swiss couple Paul and Marguerite Gessler fell in love with land in Gers, Gascony and moved to Domaine de Joÿ. The Domaine takes its name from the court jesters who were given plots of land called ‘Joy’ to enable them to be self-sufficient in between banqueting seasons.

The Gesslers added the umlaut to Joÿ to remind them of their Swiss origins. Having inherited the land from their parents, André and Véronique Gessler, and subsequently their son Olivier, became aware of the rich soils and favourable exposure of some of the parcels. They gradually abandoned polyculture and devoted the majority of the estate to vine-growing, focussing on their love of white grape varieties in particular. Today, the estate is in the hands of the fourth generation of owner winemakers Vanessa and Kevin Gessler.

The domain is certified HVE Level 3 illustrating the family’s commitment to preserve the beauty and diversity of their surroundings, and 10 hectares are in conversion to organic status. Together, Vanessa and Kevin produce stunning wines which truly reflect this wonderful terroir.