Grape · white
Chasselas
Also known as Fendant in Valais, Dorin in Vaud, Perlan in Geneva, Gutedel in German Switzerland or Neuchâtel Blanc in Three Lakes
Cool climate
About
Switzerland's national white and the soul of Lavaux. Famously neutral and transparent, it works as a mirror for terroir: low in acidity, low in obvious aroma, all about texture, salinity and the taste of the place it grew. Sold as Fendant in Valais, Dorin in Vaud, Perlan in Geneva and Neuchâtel Blanc around the Three Lakes.
Typical profile
Aromas
What the grape gives up young, and what it grows into with time in bottle.
Oak influence
None
Aging
Most are enjoyed young and fresh, but the top Lavaux Grand Crus (Dézaley, Calamin) can age 10 years or more, gaining honey and hazelnut.
Growing regions
How the grape expresses across places, grouped by country. Chips call out how a region's style deviates from the grape's default.
Switzerland
Geneva
Traditional Geneva trade name, often slightly spritzy
Three Lakes
Linear, mineral, non-malolactic style distinct from Lavaux
Valais
The traditional Valais name for Chasselas, the classic raclette wine
Vaud
Light, fresh, slightly spritzy when young; the everyday Vaud white. Switzerland's benchmark for Chasselas: low alcohol, lake-stone minerality, Dézaley and Calamin Grand Crus