The 2022 edition of the Swiss Summer Garden Party at Hohensax Castle, hosted by Maître Rôtisseur Jim Billet and organised by our Bailliage’s newly elected Bailli Rolf Untersander, was again a complete success.

It is becoming a tradition, though ironically the weather forecast never made it possible to celebrate in the park. Hope springs eternal for next year!

Chaîne members from the whole region as well as the Principality of Liechtenstein and from even as far as Australia were not dissuaded by the unfavourable weather conditions. They participated in large numbers and for a very good reason: the reputation of the event.

After an introduction by Bailli Rolf Untersander, the menu started with a freshly made cold gazpacho, followed by turbot cooked to perfection served with black saffron noodles.

Jim Billet then prepared a wonderful veal fillet with summer vegetable garnish. The menu concluded with a tropical fruit mille-feuille, probably a reference to the month long lasting hot spell in Switzerland as elsewhere this summer.

Before closing, Bailli Untersander assembled both kitchen brigade and service staff to express our sincere appreciation for their excellent job.

The Castle’s history goes back more than 470 years having been built in the 16th century by Baron (Freiherr) von Hohensax. Not surprisingly, it has changed its purpose over time. Repeatedly abandoned falling into decay, changed owners, finally rescued after the Second World War.

Restructured as a company, sustainable investment breathed new life into the castle. Becoming a restaurant and hotel, for two years now it has hosted the Bailliage as a worthy historic venue for our international association of gastronomy.

Vive la Chaîne!

Martin Bolli
Vice-Chargé de Presse