The Valais – An Exceptional Alpine Vineyard in the Heart of the Swiss Alps

The Valais, the largest wine region in Switzerland, benefits from a truly unique terroir shaped by the Alps, a dry and sunny climate with more than 2,000 hours of sunshine per year, and an extraordinary diversity of soils. Its vineyards—often planted on steep terraced slopes—produce wines of remarkable identity, renowned for their precision, purity and depth.

Indigenous and Iconic Grape Varieties

The Valais stands out for its remarkable catalogue of indigenous grape varieties—true treasures of the Swiss wine heritage.

Fendant (Chasselas)

The emblematic white grape of the canton, producing fresh, light and delicate wines. Alpine Chasselas reveals floral finesse, lively freshness and subtle minerality—perfect as an aperitif or paired with Valais specialities.

Petite Arvine

Considered one of Switzerland’s greatest white varieties, Petite Arvine delivers vibrant acidity, grapefruit and rhubarb notes, sometimes with a distinctive saline finish. Its elegance, depth and aging capacity make it one of the country’s most sought-after white wines.

Cornalin

A powerful, aromatic native red variety producing structured wines with notes of dark fruits, spices and alpine herbs. Cornalin is a true Valais signature and requires precision and mastery to express its full character.

Syrah

Introduced in the 20th century yet now indispensable, Valais Syrah is widely considered one of the finest expressions of the grape outside the Northern Rhône. Its intensity, spice, smoky nuances and elegant structure make it a superb gastronomic wine.

Flagship Estates: Chappaz & Denis Mercier

Domaine Marie-Thérèse Chappaz

A true icon of the Valais. Cultivated biodynamically, the estate produces wines of crystalline purity. Petite Arvine reaches extraordinary heights here, while the full range—from sweet wines to Fendants and alpine reds—reflects artisanal precision and a profound understanding of the terroir.

Domaine Denis Mercier

A benchmark producer in Sierre, renowned for precise, elegant Pinot Noirs and deep, expressive Syrahs. Denis Mercier is one of the canton’s most respected winemakers, crafting wines of clarity, intensity and balance.

These two estates embody the excellence of the Valais: artisanal precision, deep respect for the land and an unwavering pursuit of purity.

An Alpine Terroir that Shapes Wines of Character

Valais wines captivate with their aromatic richness, mineral tension and ability to reflect the character of the alpine vineyard. The combination of:

• terraced mountain slopes,
• schist, moraine and limestone soils,
• very low rainfall,
• strong diurnal shifts (warm days, cool nights),

produces wines with remarkable precision, elegance and long aging potential.

A Living and Dynamic Wine Culture

The Valais cultivates an ancient winegrowing tradition while embracing a modern, quality-driven approach. Many producers work organically or biodynamically, highlight native varieties and adopt artisanal winemaking practices—resulting in wines that are authentic and strongly rooted in their mountain terroirs.

The region frequently hosts tastings, open-cellar events and wine festivals, offering wine lovers a privileged opportunity to discover the diversity and excellence of this exceptional alpine vineyard.