Wines of the Valais

Although one-third of Valais is cultivated with wine, it's 5,200 hectares is small compared to the 100,000 hectares of Bordeaux or 17,000 hectares of Beaujolais and both banks of the Rhône are cultivated.

While over forty varieties of grape are grown in Valais, three varieties (Pinot Noir, Chasselas, Gamay) make up over 85% of vineyard surface area. However, recent years have seen a trend towards more local varieties such as Humagne Rouge, Petite Arvine and Amigne.

The "Valais" appellation concerns the whole Canton which is further divided into 124 recognised appellations. Most Valais wines are sold under the name of the varietal, mention the "Valais AOC" and the Trade Name of the producer. Some vines which are closely associated with particular towns use the place of production alongside the varietal.

Valais contains over 22,000 Vineyards. However only 250 of these are over 2 Hectares in size.

Related websites

Map of Canton Valais


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