Lake Thun

Lake Thun wine region at a glance

Alpine wines with character, tradition and unique flair.

Lake Thun Bern – winegrowing in the heart of the Alps

The Lake Thun wine region is located in the canton of Bern and belongs to German-speaking Switzerland. Nestled between mountain peaks, vineyards and the lake, it shapes a landscape that has been used for winegrowing for centuries. With vineyards stretching across steep slopes and small plots, the region is not large, but it produces wines with exceptional character.

The interplay of nature, climate and history makes Lake Thun a special place in Swiss wine culture.

History and development

The history of viticulture on Lake Thun goes back a long way. Vines were already being cultivated on the shores of the lake in the Middle Ages. Castles and palaces on the lake shore bear witness to the long wine tradition that is deeply rooted in the culture.

Today, the region's development is also evident in its approach to new challenges such as the conditions of climate change. Winegrowers are responding with adapted viticulture and innovative ideas.

Alpine wine culture with a unique identity

The Alpine wine culture around Lake Thun is characterised by steep vineyards, glacier soils and a climate influenced by both the altitude and the lake. Winegrowers cultivate their vines here with passion and courage, as working on steep slopes requires special care.

The wines reflect the uniqueness of the region: they are fresh, aromatic and have a lively acidity that is typical of the conditions in the Alps.

Climate, lake and air masses

The lake climate plays a central role at Lake Thun. The lake acts as a heat reservoir and ensures that the nights remain mild, while cool air masses from the Alps provide freshness. This combination prevents extreme temperature fluctuations and allows the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly.

The climatic conditions give the wines fruitiness and aroma that clearly distinguish them from other wine-growing regions in Switzerland.

Soils and vineyards

The vineyards on Lake Thun are often located on steep slopes and benefit from a special mixture of glacial soils, limestone and moraines. These soils store heat, allow water to drain well and promote deep-rooted vines.

The result is wines with minerality and depth that reflect the geological history of the region.

Winemakers and craftsmanship

The winegrowers on Lake Thun often work in small family businesses. Many vineyard plots are small and require a lot of manual labour. Working on steep slopes is demanding and demonstrates the passion of the people who tend the vines here.

Traditional craftsmanship is combined with modern approaches. Techniques are used in the wine cellar to preserve the freshness and character of the grapes.

Sustainability and biodiversity

The Lake Thun wine-growing region attaches great importance to sustainability. Many wine-growing businesses use organic methods, avoid herbicides and promote beneficial insects in order to preserve biodiversity.

This philosophy combines respect for nature with the aim of producing products of the highest quality. Sustainability is not just a buzzword here, but part of the regional identity.

Characterful wines from the Lake Thun region

The wines from Lake Thun are an expression of the alpine landscape. They are characterised by freshness, acidity and clear aromas. Every sip tells of the slopes, the soils and the passion of the winegrowers.

Characterful wines with an unmistakable taste make the Lake Thun wine-growing region a treasure among Swiss wine-growing regions.

Pinot Noir – the most important grape variety

Pinot Noir is the dominant variety in the Lake Thun wine-growing region. On the calcareous soils, it develops elegance, fine tannins and a spectrum of aromas ranging from red berries to spicy notes.

The characterful wines made from Pinot Noir are considered the flagship of the region. They are not only popular for their fresh taste, but also for their ageing potential, which allows complex aromas to develop.

Other varieties with diversity

In addition to Pinot Noir, the vineyards on Lake Thun also produce Chasselas, Müller Thurgau, Chardonnay and aromatic specialities. Each variety brings its own expression to this alpine region.

• Chasselas impresses with its lightness and mineral freshness.
• Müller Thurgau displays floral notes and lively acidity.
• Chardonnay produces full-bodied wines with structure and fine aromas.

This variety makes the Lake Thun wine region particularly exciting for connoisseurs.

Wine and food – alpine harmony

The wines from Lake Thun are versatile accompaniments to regional and international cuisine. Here are a few examples of harmonious combinations:

• Pinot Noir goes well with game dishes, roast veal or classic rösti with bacon.
• Chasselas accompanies fondue, raclette or fresh fish dishes from the lake.
• Müller Thurgau harmonises with light starters, summer dishes or goat's cheese.
• Chardonnay complements poultry dishes, creamy sauces or fine mushroom dishes.

This diversity shows that wines from Lake Thun are the perfect accompaniment to both everyday meals and festive occasions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Lake Thun wine region

Which grape varieties are grown on Lake Thun?

The most important varieties are Pinot Noir, Chasselas, Müller Thurgau and Chardonnay. They are complemented by specialities such as aromatic Burgundy varieties.

How does the climate on Lake Thun affect the wines?

The lake climate, with mild nights, cool air masses and the heat storage effect of the lake, produces fresh, aromatic wines with lively acidity.

What role does Pinot Noir play in the region?

Pinot Noir is the most important variety at Lake Thun. It produces elegant red wines that are known for their fruitiness and ageing potential.

What characterises the Alpine wine culture at Lake Thun?

Alpine wine culture combines steep vineyards, hard manual labour, biodiversity and a deep connection to nature. It is a symbol of the region's uniqueness.