Zurich

Zurich wine region – diversity between city and countryside

Wines with tradition and character from the heart of German-speaking Switzerland.

Introduction to the Zurich wine region

With over 600 hectares of vineyards, the canton of Zurich is the largest wine-growing canton in German-speaking Switzerland. From the shores of Lake Zurich to the vineyards in the north around Andelfingen, from the slopes of the Rafzerfeld to the hills in the Winterthur area, viticulture shapes the landscape and regional culture.

The vineyards are diverse: calcareous soils, sunny locations and the balanced climate along rivers and lakes create ideal conditions for a wide variety of grape varieties. Winegrowers have been working here with passion for centuries, contributing to Zurich's reputation not only for its city but also for its wines.

Zurich wine country – a centre of viticulture

The Zurich wine country is one of the most important regions in the Zurich wine-growing area. With around 220 hectares of vineyards, it is the largest contiguous wine-growing area in the canton. The region stretches north of the Rhine to the border with Schaffhausen and is characterised by rolling hills, wine-growing communities with a long tradition and fertile soils.

The proximity to the Rhine has a balancing effect on the climate and produces wines with distinctive freshness and elegance. Classic varieties such as Pinot Noir and Müller Thurgau thrive here, as do specialities that are only found in small plots.

Winterthur wine country – diversity on a small scale

The Winterthur wine country is a smaller but no less important region within the canton. With around 80 hectares of vineyards, it is manageable in size, but the quality of the wines has long been impressive. The vineyards around the city of Winterthur are sun-drenched and offer ideal conditions for white and red wines.

Pinot Noir and Riesling Silvaner in particular develop their full character here. The winegrowers tend their vines with great dedication, and the winegrowing tradition dates back centuries in some cases.

Zurich Unterland – vines between rivers and hills

The Zurich Unterland comprises around 145 hectares of vineyards and is nestled between hills, river landscapes and small villages. The region is varied: while cooler locations dominate on the banks of the Glatt river, the slopes in Rafzerfeld and Stammheimer Zipfel offer warm conditions with good sunshine.

The Unterland produces a wide range of wines – from fresh white wines to full-bodied red wines. Particularly striking are the subtle differences between the municipalities, which make the terroir noticeable in a very small area.

Tradition and history of winegrowing in Zurich

Winegrowing in the canton of Zurich dates back to Roman times. Archaeological finds prove that vines were already being cultivated 2,000 years ago. In the Middle Ages, monasteries and ecclesiastical institutions played a central role in cultivating vineyards and systematically developing winegrowing.

A decisive event was the phylloxera crisis in the 19th century, which destroyed large parts of the vineyards. It took a great deal of effort to rebuild viticulture. Today, wine-growing associations, traditional wine festivals and the cultivation of old varieties bear witness to this long and lively history.

Grape varieties in the Zurich wine-growing region

Müller Thurgau – fresh white wines with lightness

Müller Thurgau is one of the most commonly grown white varieties in the canton of Zurich. The wines impress with their freshness, lively acidity and delicate fruit aromas. They are versatile and go well with fish dishes, summer menus or light cheese variations.

Pinot Noir – the red classic

Pinot Noir, also known as Blauburgunder in German-speaking Switzerland, occupies a dominant position. It produces elegant red wines with clear fruit, fine tannins and good structure. In cooler locations, it is fresh and light, while in sun-drenched areas it shows more depth and ageing potential.

Räuschling – the indigenous speciality

A special feature of the Zurich wine-growing region is Räuschling, a traditional white grape variety that is grown almost exclusively here. Räuschling is mineral, fresh and has an unmistakable aroma, making it a true Zurich speciality.

Riesling Silvaner and other varieties

In addition to the classics, Riesling Silvaner, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and specialities such as Züriseerebe also play a role. The variety of grape varieties makes the canton of Zurich a diverse wine-growing region, where both lovers of light white wines and fans of full-bodied red wines will find something to their taste.

Vineyards and locations

The vineyards are spread across the entire canton. Particularly well-known are the slopes on Lake Zurich, the vineyards on Kohlfirst in the Zurich wine country and the plots in Rafzerfeld. In total, over 100 municipalities are involved in winegrowing, with many vineyards being small and often cultivated by hand.

The diversity of the soils – from Jura limestone to clay to gravelly alluvial soils – ensures that each site has its own unique character.

Climate and influences of the landscape

The climate in the canton of Zurich is favourable for viticulture. Mild summers, sufficient rainfall and sheltered slopes promote the ripening of the grapes. Lake Zurich has a tempering effect on the climate, while the Rhine and smaller rivers such as the Glatt and Limmat have additional influences on the microclimate.

The differences between north and south are particularly important: while conditions in the north tend to be cooler, the vineyards by the lake benefit from a longer growing season.

Wine culture in the city of Zurich

The city of Zurich itself bears the title ‘wine city’. Vineyards existed within the city walls as early as the Middle Ages. Although many have disappeared today, the tradition is kept alive by wine-growing associations, markets and festivals.

The proximity of urban life and wine culture makes Zurich a special place where viticulture is present not only in rural areas but also in the middle of the city.

Winemakers and associations

Most winemakers in the canton of Zurich work in small businesses. Many of them work part-time, but tend their vines with great dedication. Winegrowing associations play an important role in maintaining traditions, organising festivals and exchanging knowledge.

The interplay of individual commitment and community culture is what makes Zurich's wine culture so vibrant.

Wine growing in transition – challenges and opportunities

Climate change also poses challenges for the Zurich wine region. Longer periods of drought, rising temperatures and changes in rainfall are affecting the work of winegrowers. At the same time, new opportunities are opening up: new varieties can thrive, and the longer ripening period allows for the production of more complex wines.

Modern viticulture methods and sustainable concepts ensure that the region can maintain its quality in the future.

Wine and food – culinary accompaniments from Zurich

The wines of the canton of Zurich are versatile partners in the kitchen. Examples of harmonious combinations:

• Müller Thurgau goes well with fish dishes, summer salads or asparagus.
• Pinot Noir complements roasts, game dishes and hearty cheeses.
• Räuschling harmonises with regional specialities such as Züri-Geschnetzeltes (sliced beef in sauce) or cheese fondue.
• Riesling Silvaner accompanies Asian dishes or light starters.

This shows that Zurich wines not only enrich regional cuisine, but are also internationally versatile.

Winegrowing and culture on Lake Zurich

The vineyards on Lake Zurich are not only scenic, but also shape the identity of the region. With a view of the water, wines with a special freshness are produced here. The proximity to towns and villages also makes the wine experience attractive for visitors.

The wine culture on the lake combines nature, enjoyment and tradition in a unique way.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Zurich wine-growing region

Which grape varieties are particularly typical in the canton of Zurich?

Pinot Noir, Müller Thurgau, Riesling Silvaner and the indigenous Räuschling variety are particularly common.

Which regions belong to the Zurich wine-growing region?

The most important growing areas include the Zurich wine country, the Winterthur wine country, the Zurich Unterland and the slopes of Lake Zurich.

How long has wine growing been practised in Zurich?

Wine growing dates back to Roman times. Later, monasteries and the city promoted viticulture. Despite setbacks such as the phylloxera crisis, wine growing has remained an integral part of the region to this day.

What foods go well with Zurich wines?

Müller Thurgau goes well with fish, Pinot Noir with meat and game dishes, and Räuschling with cheese and regional specialities. Riesling Silvaner is suitable for light starters or exotic dishes.