Pinot Noir
About this grape variety
Pinot Noir is the most widely planted grape in Valais. It was introduced in the middle of the 19th century by the canton’s governing council in order to regenerate the wine industry, which was going through a period of transition. Long reflection had led to this move, which resulted in a spectacular increase in the area planted.
Note that Pinot Noir, an early harvest variety that supports both dryness and cold, was bound to succeed in Valais: it gives birth to very varied wines, reflecting the enormous diversity of the terroirs. Pinot Noir is particularly successful in the area around Salgesch/Salquenen and Sierre, with their very active chalky soils. It has also succeeded admirably on the left bank of the Rhone where the time needed to mature is somewhat longer, perfect for the development of this grape’s complexity and fresh aromas.
It provides structure, classiness and elegance to Dôle when it is blended with Gamay. Thanks to ambitious vinification, Pinot Noir has provided some magnificent wines in recent years, especially if matured in oak when the yield has been mastered.
This has become one of the best red Valais wines whose best vintages are capable of aging well (five to eight years).
Pinot Noir
1302 ha out of 4675 ha, or 27.85%
Tasting profile
294 wine producers cultivate this grape variety
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Turtmann
21 wines from this cellar
Diroso Weinkellerei & BnB
As well as producing traditional Valais wine, they are also pioneers in natural viticulture thanks to their fungus-resistant vines.
Varen
18 wines from this cellar
Keller zur Grotte
Traditional wines such as Dôle and Cornalin and innovative speciality wines such as Passionata and Pinot Noir Vendanges Tardives all have their place.
Visp
13 wines from this cellar
Johanneli-Fi Weinkeller
A cellar carved entirely out of the rock - unique and fascinating, with fabulous wines from Europe's highest vineyard!
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