It was probably the Romans who introduced winegrowing on the shores of Lake Geneva and in the Alps. The monks then developed this tradition throughout the Middle Ages. Vintner families carried on during the Renaissance, with their descendants remaining very attached to this tradition. Wine continues to be a strong element of the social, economic and cultural fabric of the canton of Vaud.

vineyards and lake in Switzerland
Lavaux AOC. Courtesy Vaud Promotion.

Endowed with a great variety of terroirs, the region lends itself well to growing many grape varieties. Both red wines and white wines are to be discovered. The most emblematic grape here is Chasselas, a tasty golden grape which yields crystal-clear whites that are appreciated as an aperitif and also to accompany a fera fillet from the lake or a cheese dish. Plant Robert, Pinot Gris and Mondeuse are three other typical grape varieties here.

 

vineyards in Switzerland
Calamin Grand Cru AOC. Courtesy Vaud Promotion

The winegrowing canton of Vaud consists of six wine regions and eight registered designations of origin: La Côte AOC, Lavaux (includes the three AOCs: Lavaux AOC, Calamin AOC and Dézaley AOC), Chablais AOC, Vully AOC, Bonvillars AOC and Les Côtes de l’Orbe AOC. Each region features sublime, unique landscapes that invite you to take a stroll and discover the world of vines.

 

Swiss vineyards
Côtes de l’Orbe AOC. Courtesy Vaud Promotion.

A vast winetouristic offer is available to wine fans throughout the year. This offer is developed by the label Vaud Œnotourisme, the guarantor of a quality welcome. The easily identifiable wine, catering, tourism and terroir product sale experts open their doors to all connoisseurs wishing to discover the gastronomy of the canton of Vaud. Pleasure is the common denominator when tasting wines in a cellar or taking a guided walk or a ride in the wine train through the Lavaux terraced vineyards.

 

Visit Vaud for more information.

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