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
296 wine producers cultivate this grape variety
Find a cellarwine cellar(s)
Taste this grape variety
Flanthey
24 wines from this cellar
Cordonier & Lamon
Martine and Jacques Cordonier manage the cellar and are proud to present a variety of authentic wines with character.
Savièse
22 wines from this cellar
La Petite Saviésanne
In 2016, Gaël Roten had the opportunity to return to his hometown and take over the La Petite Saviésanne winery.
Brig
17 wines from this cellar
Vin du Mur
With over two and a half hectares of vines, Jean-Pierre Ruff produces 20 kinds of wine of the highest quality from 13 different grape varieties.
Your tasting profile
Select your favourite type of wine or indicate what you are looking for in a wine and find out which Valais wine is right for you.