Chasselas

Chasselas wines at Ritschard Weine: a cultural asset in Switzerland and beyond

Chasselas is one of the oldest and most diverse cultivated vines in the world and has a special significance in Switzerland. The Chasselas grape, which is used both as a table grape and for wine production, is deeply rooted in the wine culture of western Switzerland. While the name Chasselas is used in French-speaking Switzerland, this noble white wine is known as Fendant in Valais. Either way, the wine made from this grape variety enjoys a high level of recognition both in Switzerland and in other countries. 

The history and origin of the Chasselas grape

The exact origin of the Chasselas grape is still not known today. While studies suggest that it may come from the Nile Delta, its original home is also thought to be in Palestine or in the Near East around Constantinople. However, its original home is thought to be in Palestine. This grape has been cultivated in various regions for centuries and has established itself as a versatile variety. The seafaring Phoenicians brought the grape variety to the Greeks and Romans, and from here it began its triumphal march to the rest of Europe, where it is particularly widespread in Switzerland, but also in Germany and France.

In Switzerland, the Chasselas grape is particularly important in the cantons of Vaud and Valais. It is the calling card of Swiss wine culture and is grown in numerous appellations. The Chasselas wine produced in Switzerland is best known as Fendant in Valais and as Chasselas in the canton of Vaud. This variety is closely associated with Swiss identity and the country's traditional wine-growing regions.

The cultivation and character of the Chasselas grape variety

Wine-growing regions and terroirs of Fendant 

Chasselas is considered an early-ripening variety that thrives particularly well in northern regions. It has a strong growth habit and prefers a mild, warm and humid climate. The Chasselas vines thrive particularly well in the wine-growing regions of western Switzerland. The La Côte region in the canton of Vaud and the AOC Valais in the canton of Valais are the most famous growing areas for Chasselas wines. The soils in these regions are rich in minerals, which gives the wines a special freshness and minerality. The climate in these regions, with its mild temperatures and sufficient sunshine, also contributes to the development of the unique character of the Chasselas grape. The term ‘Chasselas Gutedel’ emphasises the importance of the terroir and growing areas, as this grape variety reflects the diversity of soils and climatic conditions.

Characteristics of Chasselas wines

Chasselas wines are known for their subtle elegance and versatility. They are usually light, dry and display a balanced acidity. The aromas range from citrus fruits to delicate floral notes, complemented by a subtle minerality. These wines are often drunk young to take full advantage of their fresh fruitiness and vibrant flavours. However, as they age, Chasselas wines also develop more complex secondary aromas, which can be reminiscent of honey and nuts.

The diversity of Chasselas wines

Chasselas wines are produced in different styles, depending on the region, the soils and the winemakers. A typical Chasselas from the canton of Vaud, such as the famous Dézaley or Les Murettes, often has a pronounced minerality and delicate fruit, while a Fendant from the canton of Valais, such as the Fendant du Ravin from Adrian & Diego Mathier Nouveau Salquenen AG, impresses with its freshness and lightness. The diversity of Chasselas wines, in particular the Chasselas Gutedel, emphasises their finesse and elegance as well as their ability to reflect the diversity of soils and climatic conditions.

Another phenomenon of Chasselas wines is their ability to reflect the terroir. Chasselas is considered to be one of the few grape varieties that clearly transfers the character of the soil and climate in which it grows into the wine. This makes Chasselas wines an excellent companion for a wide range of dishes, from aperitifs to cheese fondue and raclette to fish dishes.

In addition to its use in wine production, the Chasselas grape is also appreciated as a table grape worldwide. The table grapes are highly valued because they are easy to transport and have a pleasantly sweet taste. In many regions, especially in Switzerland and Germany, it is a popular table grape because of its sweet and mild flavour. The grapes are large, juicy and have a thin skin, making them an ideal snack for in between meals.

Chasselas wines and their importance in the wine world

As a wine grape, the Chasselas Gutedel grape is found mainly in Switzerland (especially in French-speaking Switzerland and Valais), in Alsace, in Germany (Markgräflerland), and to a lesser extent in Austria, Romania (about 13,000 hectares), Hungary (about 6,000 hectares) and the Czech Republic. In Switzerland, it covers a large part of the vineyard area. The majority is in the cantons of Valais and Vaud.

Fendant or Chasselas: Chasselas in Switzerland 

In Switzerland, Chasselas wine holds a special position. It is not only the most widely grown white wine variety, but also an important part of Swiss wine culture. In the cantons of Vaud and Valais, the Chasselas grape is the most important grape variety and significantly shapes the image of the wine landscape. Here, Chasselas wine is considered the reference for Swiss white wines, and many winemakers specialise in the production of Chasselas wines. 

International importance

Chasselas wine has also gained a certain importance outside Switzerland, particularly in Germany, where the grape is known as Gutedel. In Baden, one of Germany's most important wine-producing regions, Gutedel is widely cultivated and appreciated as a fresh, light white wine. In France, Chasselas is mainly found in Alsace and the Loire Valley, where it is also used to make fine white wines.

Chasselas and the culture of the region

Chasselas wine is closely linked to the culture and traditions of French-speaking Switzerland. In many cantons, especially in the Lake Geneva region, the wine plays a central role in festivals and celebrations. Here, Chasselas wine is not only seen as a drink, but also as an expression of regional identity and hospitality. The harvest and production of Chasselas wine are deeply rooted in local customs and passed down from generation to generation.

Chasselas wines compared to other grape varieties

While Chasselas is considered the most important white wine variety in Switzerland, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris are also important grape varieties that are often grown in the same region. Chasselas Gutedel, known for its finesse and elegance, is often grown in the same vineyards as Pinot Noir, offering an interesting contrast to the light, fresh Chasselas wines. Pinot Gris, a white grape variety, is not as widespread in Switzerland as Chasselas, but it is still used to produce full-bodied and aromatic white wines.

The taste of Chasselas wines differs significantly from that of other white wines. While many white wines in the world are characterised by their intense fruit aromas and strong acidity, Chasselas wines impress with their subtle elegance and finely balanced acidity. It often has a light fruitiness with hints of citrus fruits and flowers, coupled with a fine minerality that sets it apart from other wines.

Chasselas wines: enjoyment, drinking maturity and storage

Chasselas wines are often drunk young to fully bring out their freshness and vibrant aromas. Most Chasselas wines should be enjoyed within two to three years of bottling to experience their best qualities. However, some Chasselas wines, particularly those from the best sites and vintages, can be aged for several years, developing more complex aromas and greater depth. 

Chasselas wines are extremely versatile and are an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes. They go particularly well with traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue and raclette, as the wine's delicate acidity and light fruitiness balance the heaviness of the cheese. Chasselas is also an excellent choice with fish dishes, seafood and light starters.

Chasselas wines are also very popular as an aperitif, as they are light and refreshing and prepare the palate for the following courses. The aromas of citrus fruits and flowers make Chasselas an ideal summer wine that comes into its own on warm days.

Chasselas wines are often drunk young to fully appreciate their freshness and lively aromas. Most Chasselas wines should be enjoyed within two to three years of bottling to experience their best qualities. However, some Chasselas wines, particularly those from the best sites and vintages, can be cellared for several years, developing more complex flavours and greater depth. 

Chasselas wines are extremely versatile and are an excellent accompaniment to a range of dishes. They go particularly well with traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese fondue and raclette, as the wine's delicate acidity and light fruitiness balance the heaviness of the cheese. Chasselas is also an excellent choice with fish dishes, seafood and light starters.

Chasselas wines are also very popular as an aperitif because they are light and refreshing and prepare the palate for the following courses. The aromas of citrus fruits and flowers make Chasselas an ideal summer wine that comes into its own on warm days.