03-06-2025 15:05    Vincent

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The beginning of a dynasty

In 2025, the Domaine du Ry d’Argent celebrates its 20th anniversary. Some stories and companies are created and grow before our eyes over the course of a career. And in this case, it’s a journey I have followed for several years, a story that began two decades ago with Jean-François Baele and his family, winemakers with impressive energy and boldness. Founded in 2005 in Bovesse, in the province of Namur, this family-run estate successfully transformed a traditional farming operation into a recognized vineyard, blending tradition with modernity.

Traditional methods and more

At a time when Belgian viticulture was still a niche, Jean-François Baele decided to plant his first vines in 2005, inspired by his neighbour, Domaine du Chenoy. The initial interspecific grape varieties such as Regent, Cabernet Jura, and Solaris were chosen for their adaptability to the Belgian climate. In 2007, the introduction of Dornfelder marked an important step, reflecting a desire to produce bold red wines.

The estate's first wine range emerged in 2008. Faced with a surplus of 2,000 litres in 2010, a partnership with a third party led to the creation of the estate’s first sparkling cuvée, the Rosée d’Audrey. Using Dornfelder usually reserved for red wine to create a rosé sparkling wine was unconventional, but it made perfect sense. This experience convinced Jean-François of the potential of the traditional method, and by 2011, the estate had invested in its own equipment to produce sparkling wines.

Professionalizing and diversifying

Today, the estate spans several terroirs, notably in Huy and Lasne, allowing for geographical diversification a strategic advantage in the face of unpredictable weather. This approach has proven its worth, especially in challenging harvest years, by providing resilience.

In 2017, the introduction of Auxerrois and Johanniter, grown using organic methods, demonstrated the estate’s commitment to environmentally responsible viticulture. Practicing sustainable farming with no pesticides, the estate is even considering a full conversion to organic in the future.

The year 2019 marked a strategic turning point. With the arrival of a new oenologist, the cuvées were redesigned, shifting from single-varietal wines to more stable blends, in line with consumer demand for consistency. The packaging was also reimagined, adopting a single bottle design for all products, strengthening the estate’s visual identity.

Today, the Domaine du Ry d’Argent produces around 60,000 bottles annually, including both still and sparkling wines. Cuvées such as Cuvée Nell, Rosée d’Audrey, and Cuvée Lisy showcase the estate’s expertise and originality. Exports to markets like Abidjan, Mexico, Colombia, and China also highlight the growing international recognition of Belgian wines.

My 20/CENT

I have known Jean-François for many years, even having the pleasure of collaborating with him in a previous professional life. As such, I’ve often had a front-row seat to the estate’s evolution its growth, its highs and lows… but above all, I’ve witnessed how Jean-François and his family have maintained a clear commercial vision and a product approach that balances respect for tradition with bold innovation.

In my line of work as you know I closely follow the wine category, a true pillar and stronghold of retail. I often see century-old houses justifiably promoting their heritage, iconic cuvées, and founding generations through press releases or events. In the case of the Domaine du Ry d’Argent, I feel like I am witnessing the birth of one of those future great houses. A house that, a hundred years from now, will also be able to tell its origin story and speak of the remarkable vision of its founding family.

Put simply, the estate’s dynamism and daring give me the impression that we are privileged witnesses to the birth of a true Belgian wine dynasty.

P.S.: Don’t hesitate to try their sparkling wines they are simply fantastic to drink, and in my opinion, they deserve a spot on your shelves.