Wallis Wines (5)

Valais - the somewhat different Rhône Valley

For many, winegrowing in Valais is an unknown - not for the Valaisans themselves. Grapes have been thriving in the dry climate for thousands of years. And although Valais is now the largest wine producer in Switzerland, the wines from often secondary occupations are mostly consumed locally. Thanks to the increasing demand, particularly for Dôle du Valais wines and Fendant wines, fine Swiss wines from Valais are gradually making their way out into the world.

Winegrowing in Valais

Valais in the southwest of Switzerland is the largest wine-growing region within the Swiss Confederation with its approximately 5,000 hectares of vineyard area. The vineyards are usually found at altitudes of 450 to 850 meters above sea level and line the still young Rhône. Approximately 60% of the grapes grown are red wine grapes and 40% are white wine grapes on terraces and steep slopes with gradients of up to 70%. In addition to often autochthonous grape varieties such as Humagna rouge, Petite Arvine, or Cornalin, international varieties such as Chardonnay, Gamay, and Pinot Noir are also grown in the vineyards. The latter varieties are key to the Dôle du Valais, an AOC wine that exclusively originates from Valais.

The highest vineyard in Europe can also be found in the canton and wine-growing region of Valais. The location of Vesperterminen, between 650 and 1,150 meters, is characterized by narrow terraces and retaining walls and invites for unique hikes.

Soils & Climate

Alpine - this describes the Valais landscape quite well. The valley where the wine grows and thrives is surrounded by mountains over 4,000 meters high. Too high for rain clouds, which rarely wander into the valley. Although a continental climate prevails, the days are very hot, and even summer droughts occur. Therefore, the winemakers use a sophisticated canal system with which they irrigate their vines with glacier water. The warm föhn wind blowing through the valley also influences the vines.

Faults of the glaciers form the basis for cultivation. Alluvial land in the lower valley expands the soil portfolio so that due to the great variety of varieties, numerous styles and individual products emerge - not least because of the over 600 producers, each of whom has their own ideas about winegrowing. For some, winegrowing is just a side occupation, so large cooperatives buy the grapes and vinify them.

Dôle du Valais and Fendant du Valais

Dôle du Valais

The Dôle is probably the most famous Swiss wine and a specialty that may only originate from Valais. The cuvée consists of at least 85% Pinot Noir and Gamay, with Pinot Noir making up the larger share, and is named after the French city of Dole. As an AOC-certified wine, strict guidelines apply from cultivation to the finished product. In addition to 85% Pinot Noir and Gamay, the red wine cuvée consists of another 15% grape varieties like Syrah or the autochthonous varieties Humagne Rouge and Cornalin. Naturally, only grapes from Valais may be used and vinified for Dôle du Valais.

The Dôle expresses powerful aromas of juicy red berries. A range of fine spices and floral notes continue the ripe aroma until the long finish balances the enjoyment.

Fendant du Valais

The grape variety Fendant is better known in German-speaking regions as Gutedel and in France as Chasselas. In Valais, it is produced dry and cultivated on a large scale as AOC Fendant du Valais. The young and varietal Valaisan white wine exudes clear aromas with fine nuances of the local terroir. With sweetish fruit and balanced acidity, Fendant presents a strong character for Valais. And of course, Fendant pairs well with medium-bodied cheese.

The Grape Variety Spectrum of Valais

On the vineyards from Brig to Martigny, approximately 60% red wine grapes and 40% white wine grapes grow. The main variety is Pinot Noir, followed by Chasselas.

Red Grape Varieties

• Pinot Noir
• Gamay
• Syrah
• Cornalin
• Humagne Rouge
• Merlot
• Gamaret
• Diolinoir

White Grape Varieties

• Chasselas
• Arvine
• Savagnin blanc
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Gris

Buy Valais Wine Online

Discover Valais wines in the VINELLO online shop and wander through a truly special wine region. Order wine from Valais and other national as well as international wine regions easily and affordably online. We ship your wine safely packaged wherever you want. Thanks to numerous payment options and sommelier advice, you can enjoy a relaxed wine shopping experience at VINELLO. It all starts with just a few clicks. À votre santé!