Wines from Vaud at Ritschard Weine

The Vaud wine region – diversity and quality from French-speaking Switzerland

Introduction to the Vaud wine region

The Vaud wine region, located in the heart of French-speaking Switzerland, is one of the most important wine-growing areas in Switzerland. The Vaud wine regions are significant wine-growing areas with a long tradition of winemaking and produce several AOC wines. With around 3,800 hectares of vineyards, it is the second largest in the country. The region is known for its diversity of grape varieties and wine styles, which are divided into six main growing areas: La Côte, Lavaux, Chablais, Côtes de l'Orbe, Bonvillars and Vully.

Historical development of winegrowing

Winegrowing in Vaud has a long tradition dating back to Roman times. In the Middle Ages, monasteries such as the Cistercian monastery of Hauterive promoted the cultivation of vines. Lavaux in particular owes its terraced vineyards to the Cistercian monks, who cultivated the steep slopes on the shores of Lake Geneva and thus contributed significantly to the development of wine-growing culture in the region.

The AOC regions of Vaud

La Côte – rolling hills and elegant wines

La Côte stretches along the northern shore of Lake Geneva between Nyon and Lausanne. Mont-sur-Rolle and Rolle are specific wine-growing villages within this region, known for their wine cellars and historic inns. With around 2,000 hectares, it is the largest wine-growing region in Vaud. The calcareous soils and mild climate are ideal for growing Chasselas, which produces fresh and fruity wines here.

Lavaux – UNESCO World Heritage Site with Grand Cru vineyards

Lavaux, located between Lausanne and Montreux, is famous for its spectacular terraced vineyards, which have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007. These steep slopes, which are cultivated with great passion and craftsmanship, reflect the tradition and challenges of winegrowing in this region. The Grand Cru vineyards of Dézaley and Calamin produce complex Chasselas wines with excellent ageing potential.

Chablais – diversity between the lake and the Alps

Chablais lies at the eastern end of Lake Geneva and includes municipalities such as Aigle, Yvorne and Bex. The region is characterised by a microclimate influenced by the foehn wind, which benefits both white and red wines. White wines in particular, including varieties such as Chasselas and Gewürztraminer, benefit from the unique growing conditions and contribute to the region's rich wine culture.

Côtes de l'Orbe – historic wine-growing region

Located between Lausanne and Yverdon-les-Bains, Côtes de l'Orbe is one of the oldest wine-growing regions in Vaud. The clay and limestone soils produce full-bodied red wines from Pinot Noir and Gamay.

Bonvillars – elegance on Lake Neuchâtel

Located north of Lake Neuchâtel, the Bonvillars AOC wine region covers around 190 hectares of vineyards. The chalky soils and moderate climate promote the production of mineral Chasselas wines and structured Pinot Noirs.

Vully – small but mighty

Located on Lake Murten, Mont Vully is the smallest AOC region in Vaud. Despite its size, it offers an impressive variety of wines, including fresh Chasselas and characterful reds.

Grape varieties and wine styles

Chasselas – The queen of Vaud wines

Chasselas is the dominant grape variety in Vaud and is considered the home of this important grape variety, which accounts for around 68% of the vineyard area. The wines are characterised by their freshness, minerality and complexity, which are strongly influenced by the terroir.

Pinot Noir and Gamay – red diversity

Pinot Noir and Gamay are the main grape varieties for red wines in Vaud. While Pinot Noir produces elegant and refined wines, Gamay produces fruity and accessible red wines. A new generation of well-trained winemakers in the wine-growing regions of La Côte and Vully has sharpened the region's profile and is contributing to the improvement of wine quality.

Other grape varieties and specialities

In addition to the main varieties, grape varieties such as Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Garanoir and Gamaret are also grown in Vaud. The vine plays a central role, especially Chasselas, which is celebrated in the Chablais region. A particular rarity is Plant Robert, an old red wine variety cultivated mainly in Lavaux.

Wine and cuisine – harmonious combinations

Chasselas and cheese

The fresh and mineral Chasselas wines, a dry white wine, harmonise perfectly with regional cheese specialities such as Vacherin Mont-d'Or or Tomme Vaudoise. Chasselas is also the classic accompaniment to fondue or raclette.

Red wines with meat dishes

Pinot Noir and Gamay are ideal with meat dishes such as entrecôte, lamb chops or game. The fine structure of these wines perfectly complements the flavours of the meat.

White wines with fish and seafood

Swiss Chasselas, Pinot Gris or Chardonnay from Vaud are excellent accompaniments to fish dishes, seafood or light starters. Their freshness and elegance emphasise the delicate flavours of the food.

Frequently asked questions about the Vaud wine-growing region

Which grape varieties dominate in Vaud?

Vaud is known for its white wines made from Chasselas, which accounts for around 68% of the vineyard area. Pinot Noir and Gamay dominate the red wines. Other varieties grown include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Garanoir and Gamaret.

What does Grand Cru status mean in Vaud?

The Grand Cru designation denotes particularly high-quality vineyards that meet strict quality criteria. In Vaud, for example, the Dézaley and Calamin vineyards in Lavaux bear this title.

When does the Fête des Vignerons take place?

The Fête des Vignerons is a traditional winegrowers' festival celebrated approximately every 20 to 25 years in Vevey, highlighting the important role of winegrowers in the region. The last edition took place in 2019 and attracted over a million visitors.

What culinary specialities go well with Vaud wines?

Wines from the region's vineyards, such as Chasselas, go well with regional cheese specialities such as Vacherin Mont-d'Or or Tomme Vaudoise. Red wines such as Pinot Noir and Gamay are ideal accompaniments to meat dishes such as entrecôte or lamb chops.

Are there any wine trails in Vaud?

Yes, Vaud offers numerous wine trails, particularly in Lavaux, where you can hike along the terraced vineyards and enjoy the impressive landscape and views of Lake Geneva.