In Switzerland, wine is an expression of the terroir and culture that has shaped our landscape for centuries. At Celliers de Sion, we take great pride in our contribution to this winemaking tradition, cultivating and producing wines that embody the spirit of our region.
Switzerland’s terroir, characterized by a diversity of soils and microclimates, offers an ideal environment for vines. From towering Alps to tranquil lakes, each wine region develops grape varieties that reflect these unique characteristics.
These grape varieties are at the heart of the identity of Swiss wines. They are chosen not only for their ability to thrive in our climates, but also for their ability to translate the complexity of our terroir into captivating flavors and aromas. At Celliers de Sion, we’re committed to providing you with an experience that not only introduces you to these unique flavors, but also transports you to the magnificent landscape of Sion, where these wines come to life.
Grape varieties grown in Switzerland
- Chasselas, more commonly known as Fendant in Valais.
- Pinot Noir
- Merlot
- Gamay
- Müller-Thurgau (Riesling x Sylvaner)
- Syrah
- Petite Arvine
- Cornalin
- Humagne Rouge
- Chardonnay
A historical overview of viticulture in Switzerland
Historically, viticulture in Switzerland dates back to Roman times, and was strongly influenced by monks in the Middle Ages. Today, with over 200 different grape varieties grown on a vineyard area of 15,000 hectares, Switzerland is a veritable wine melting pot. This variety is the fruit of centuries of experimentation and the quest for excellence. Among the most widely cultivated varieties are Chasselas, known locally as Fendant in Valais and synonymous with Swiss white wine par excellence, and Pinot Noir, the red variety that has thrived on Swiss soil.
Switzerland offers a wide range of wines
In Switzerland, we produce a wide range of wines, from light, mineral whites to powerful, full-bodied reds. I’d like to introduce you to some of our most popular grape varieties, which play an essential role in the distinctive character and diversity of our wines.
We’re talking, of course, about Chasselas, known as Fendant in Valais, arguably Switzerland’s most iconic white wine. It’s renowned for its freshness, for its AOC and for the delicate aromas it releases from the very first sip.
Next, we’ll look at pinot noir, an elegant red wine that’s the ideal companion for a wide variety of dishes. Originally from Burgundy in France, pinot has adapted very well to the Swiss climate.
A little less well known, but just as tasty, Merlot from French-speaking Switzerland has won hearts with its roundness and assertive character. And of course, how could we forget Gamay, a grape variety imbued with subtlety that has found a home in Switzerland.
Finally, there are some lesser-known grape varieties that are well worth discovering, such as müller-thurgau and syrah; the former a pleasant white wine, the latter a robust, spicy red.
Well, now that we’ve piqued your curiosity, let’s get to the heart of the matter and discover these wonderful Swiss grape varieties together.
Chasselas: Switzerland’s king of whites
If there’s one grape variety that embodies the soul of Swiss wine, it’s Chasselas. Also known as fendant in Valais, this grape is the jewel in the Swiss crown, and with good reason: more than half of all Swiss white wines are made from this variety, and have been for centuries.
History and origins of Chasselas
The exact origin of Chasselas remains a mystery, although some place it in Egypt, Lebanon or Asia Minor. What is certain is that chasselas became established in Switzerland in the Middle Ages, probably in the canton of Vaud, before spreading to the rest of the country.
Where can you find Chasselas in Switzerland?
Valais, Vaud, Geneva, Neuchâtel… Chasselas is grown in almost every wine-growing canton in Switzerland. Of course, each region brings its own color, but it’s in Valais that fendant (the local name for chasselas) is most famous. Its presence in Valais is due in part to the region’s particular geology, which gives fendant an incomparable minerality.
Taste profiles and food pairings
With its golden color, Chasselas is appreciated for its freshness, minerality and delicate aromas of white fruit, honey and flowers. But its true beauty lies in its ability to express the terroir in which it was grown. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply curious, you’ll be amazed by the variety of tones and textures this grape variety can offer.
As for food and wine pairings, Chasselas is a chameleon. It goes equally well with fish, seafood and cheese… It’s a sublime accompaniment to local cuisine, and always an excellent choice when you’re not sure which bottle to open.
Pinot noir: an elegant, versatile red
If you think pinot noir is exclusive to Burgundy in France, think again. Pinot noir has found a place of choice in Switzerland, where it produces red wines of great elegance and complexity.
Characteristics of Swiss pinot noir
Swiss Pinot Noir is captivating. It offers aromas of red fruits, violets and vanilla, with occasional hints of undergrowth and mushrooms. On the palate, the wine is generally light to medium-bodied, with very soft tannins and delicate acidity that give it exceptional freshness. And like Chasselas, Pinot Noir wonderfully expresses Switzerland’s different soils and microclimates.
Key regions and winemaking methods
You’ll find Pinot Noir in almost every wine-growing canton in Switzerland, but it’s in eastern Switzerland, particularly in Graubünden and Schaffhausen, that the variety produces its best wines. Here, Pinot is often vinified in oak barrels, giving it extra roundness and complexity.
Suggested culinary combinations
Thanks to its versatility, Pinot Noir goes well with a wide variety of dishes. With its aromas of red fruits, it goes perfectly with turkey, duck and grilled salmon. And don’t forget soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert: pinot noir and cheese are a combination that will never disappoint.
So, whether you’re a fan of light, fruity reds or you’re looking for a red wine with some complexity, Swiss pinot noir should be at the top of your list to try!
Merlot: the rising star of reds in French-speaking Switzerland
The French-speaking part of Switzerland is particularly renowned for the rise of Merlot, a red grape variety that is enjoying resounding success. Adapted to the Swiss climate, Merlot produces wines of enchanting richness and complexity.
Merlot expansion in Switzerland
Originally associated with the Bordeaux region of France, Merlot made its way to Switzerland in the late 19th century. Since then, it has grown in popularity, especially in the canton of Valais, where it is now the second most widely grown red grape variety after pinot noir.
Distinctive characteristics of Swiss Merlot
Swiss Merlot can be recognized by its deep red, almost purple color. On the nose, it generally reveals aromas of black cherry, blackberry and plum, accompanied by hints of tobacco, leather and spices. On the palate, these wines are full-bodied, round and fleshy, with silky tannins and good length.
The best food and merlot pairings
Thanks to its fullness and structure, Merlot goes perfectly with red meats, game and mature cheeses. But make no mistake: Merlot can be surprisingly versatile, and also goes well with certain fish, such as tuna or salmon.
If you haven’t yet tasted a Swiss Merlot, we invite you to do so without delay. We bet you’ll be surprised by the generosity and sophistication of this wine!
Gamay: a grape variety that deserves attention
You may know Gamay from the Beaujolais region, but did you know that this grape variety is successfully cultivated in Switzerland, particularly in the canton of Geneva?
The importance of Gamay in the canton of Geneva
Gamay has found its home in the canton of Geneva, where it occupies a quarter of all vineyards. This seductive variety thrives on the region’s limestone soils and temperate climates.
Tasting notes and wine styles
Gamay produces round, fruity wines of great generosity. Its expressive aromas of flowers and red berries, combined with fresh acidity and supple tannins, make it a pleasant, accessible wine.
Swiss winemakers, especially in Geneva, have made the most of this grape variety, giving it an intensity and structure that rival some of the country’s finest red wines.
Explore pairings with Gamay
Gamay is an ace at pairing food and wine. Its freshness, fruitiness and suppleness make it an ideal partner for a variety of dishes, from charcuterie and white meats to fatty fish and mild cheeses.
If you haven’t yet discovered Swiss Gamay, it’s never too late to be surprised by this fine expression of Swiss terroir!
Other interesting grape varieties to discover in Switzerland
While Chasselas, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Gamay are undoubtedly the best known, they are far from the only grape varieties grown in Switzerland.
Müller-thurgau: a delicate white
Müller-thurgau is a white grape variety that, despite its sometimes unfair reputation, deserves your attention. Offering a discreet, delicate aromatic palette, this variety produces light, fruity wines that are a pleasure to drink in any circumstances.
Syrah: a powerful, spicy red
Syrah produces red wines with intense aromas of black fruits, violets, pepper and spices. Like its cousin Merlot, Syrah has adapted very well to the Swiss climate, particularly in Valais, where it produces powerful, racy wines.
If you’d like to explore the diversity of Swiss grape varieties, we urge you to look beyond the best-known varietals and let yourself be surprised by the many treasures to be found in Swiss vineyards. With a little curiosity and openness, you’re sure to make some incredible discoveries!