The Wine Route in Switzerland - Global Enotourism

No, Switzerland isn't just about watches, banks, and chocolate. Switzerland is also about wine!

The Map of Terroirs

I begin by visiting the Changins School in Nyon, where I learn that there are five major wine-growing regions. The Geneva region, planted mainly with Gamay, consists of large plots averaging 4.7 hectares. In the Canton of Vaud, with its fragmented terroirs, Chasselas reigns supreme. André Bélard, an oenologist, explains to me the unique microclimate that prevails in the famous Lavaux vineyards through the “three suns phenomenon”: the sun’s rays reflecting off the walls, the light reflected by the lake, and direct sunlight. These three sources of light promote optimal grape ripening—quite a program! Heading up the Rhône Valley (yes, really!), I find myself in Valais, which boasts the largest vineyard area in Switzerland, with a dry, sunny climate: 120,000 plots planted with Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chasselas (called Fendant in this canton), and Petite Arvine. There is also the Three Lakes Region, where Pinot Noir and Chasselas truly shine, as well as Ticino, a more humid region on the Italian border planted with Merlot.

My advice

Marie Linder, a seasoned wine taster, explains to me that there are a large number of international grape varieties of French origin, such as Syrah, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Personally, I don’t think they’re the most interesting, but they are certainly the best sellers, thanks to their reputation. You’re better off focusing on local grape varieties—the ones that best showcase the terroirs of this beautiful country and are the pride of the winemakers. Try, for example, Petite Arvine, Cornalin, Humagne Blanche, Humagne Rouge, or Garanoir. Admittedly, Swiss wines are expensive, but the quality is increasingly up to par; the image of the rich, soft Chasselas is fading in favor of the freshness and minerality of Petite Arvine. And that’s a good thing…

With a hearty raclette in our bellies, let’s head to Italy and the Aosta Valley!

My favorites

Caves du Paradis – Sierre
Humagne Blanche 2014
Garanoir 2013

Philippe Varone – Sion
Petite Arvine 2014
Humagne Blanche 2014

Louis Bovard – Cully
Epesses 2014