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lpine, New Jersey – a wealthy New York City suburb – witnessed a landmark real‑estate transaction when the 25,700‑sq‑ft Chateau de la Roche closed for $17.7 million. The price makes it the most expensive residential sale in New Jersey in the past three years and the highest in Alpine’s Rio Vista community since 2022.
The estate sits on a two‑acre parcel in the gated Rio Vista enclave, roughly thirty minutes from Manhattan. Built on blasted bedrock, the mansion’s name—“Château de la Roche,” French for “rock castle”—refers to the massive boulder that was removed to lay its foundation. David and Mindy Kwon purchased the land in 2011 for $3.95 million and spent four years constructing the limestone, travertine and cast‑stone home, which was completed in 2017.
Designed by Zampolin & Associates Architects, the property blends Old‑World grandeur with contemporary luxury. Inside, seven bedrooms and 10½ bathrooms accommodate a 15‑seat theater, two plunge pools, sauna, steam room, billiards room, library, wine cellar, two bars, and a conservatory. The exterior features a resort‑style pool and spa set amid landscaped grounds.
Listing agent and interior designer Denise Albanese of Christie’s Mahwah‑Saddle River Sales Gallery oversaw the estate’s design and marketing. She praised the home’s soaring ceilings, detailed moldings, and warm ambience. The Kwons, who own multiple properties, chose to downsize and declined to comment on the sale, while Albanese confirmed the buyer’s identity remains confidential.
The property first appeared on the market in 2021 with a $25 million asking price. It was reduced to $22.49 million in 2023 before finally selling for $17.7 million. Albanese attributed the final price to the home’s exceptional craftsmanship, exquisite finishes, and unique amenities.
The buyer was represented by Richard Orlando and Jason Pierce of Prominent Properties Sotheby’s International Realty, along with Taylor Lucyk of Christie’s International Real Estate Group. The transaction closed on Tuesday, setting a new benchmark for stone‑based mansions in the region.
