Valais
[va-LEH; va-LAY]
Canton that contains one of Switzerland’s best growing climates—dry and sunny—and is therefore one of the two main growing regions (the other being VAUD). The vineyards are located in the upper valley of the Rhône in the southwestern part of Switzerland not far from the Italian border. Valais produces mostly white wines, and CHASSELAS (locally known as Fendant) is the dominant grape. GAMAY and PINOT NOIR are the most popular red grapes in this area. They’re often blended together in a wine called Dôle, which is similar to a light-bodied, red BURGUNDY. Dôle, which must contain 51 percent Pinot Noir, is regarded as one of Switzerland’s best red wines. Lower-quality versions (those with less than 51 percent Pinot Noir) of this same blend are called Goron. Valais also grows Amigne, Arvine, Johannisberger (RIESLING), Humagne, and Malvoisie de Valais (PINOT GRIS) grapes.
Related Links:
Vaud,
Gamay,
Pinot Noir
© Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc.
1995 based on THE WINE LOVER'S COMPANION,
by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst.
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