Swiss Wine - rich flavors of the red wines increasingly popular
Grapes came to Switzerland in the earliest time of man. Seeds found in the region date back several millennia. In terms of local wineries, the Vaudois brings a rich history.
For excellent wineries the Vaudois is one of Switzerland’s premier locations. The Vineyards in the canton of Vaud lie on the northern side of Lake Geneva and hugs the Rhône River as well. This region is the second largest producer of wine in the Switzerland. As with the rest of the country, most wines produced in this area stay inside the country. Less than one percent leaves as an export. If the wine doesn’t come to you, go to the wine. This region gained fame as an excellent producer of white wines although they produce very good reds as well. Chasselas is the dominant grape used to produce the excellent whites. On the red side, Gamays and Pinot Noir shape the flavors. These are combined with the canton’s distinct Sauvagnin blend. Other grapes grown include Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Riesling-Sylvaner.
This area hosts vineyards with ancient grape varieties alongside new ones developed in the past few decades. The history of this area focused on producing excellent white wines. However, the region’s wine production of whites is now at a turning point. The main grape of the region, Chasselas, is falling out of fashion. Those producing these wines are seeing demand drop. The rich flavors of the reds however are gaining popularity. The current ratio of white grapes to red cultivated is more than two to one. This is likely to change with the changing wine tastes.
For those looking to tour wineries the Vaudois area welcomes many guests throughout the year. The canton has four distinct regions for wine production: Chablais, La Côte, Côtes de l’Orbe, and Lavaux. Each one brings its own flavors to the mix. Chablais offers excellent white wines that top many Swiss whites. La Côte produces wines well paired with appetizers and fish. The Côtes de l’Orbe area sits between Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel producing excellent Chasselas varieties. Lavaux is unique. Its terraced vineyards remain protected from development. UNESCO added this area to the World Heritage List a few years ago in recognition of the place's unique character.
For tours of wineries Vaudois brings guests an excellent selection of wines in a beautiful environment. To enjoy the wines, visit the many caveaux dotted around the region. There are restaurants and cafés in the many regional villages that offer local wines. Many people go by train or boat from Geneva to visit the area. The region is also great for hiking and biking.