Syrah AOC Valais 2022

This Syrah comes from Fully, in Valais, on the right bank of the Rhône, where Gérard Dorsaz runs a family estate of about five hectares, in the middle of which stands his winery. The vines are planted on terraces on a crystalline terroir, acidic granite soils over a gneiss subsoil, with limestone patches in places. The dry-stone walls store the heat of the day and release it at night, while the foehn wind and the influence of the Rhône shape an ideal microclimate for Syrah.

The estate works as close to nature as possible, with controlled yields and sustainable viticulture, seeking wines that express the identity of Fully. The grapes are harvested at full ripeness. To reveal every facet of Syrah, part of the harvest is vinified as whole bunches, which refines the wine's aromatic definition. The measured ageing uses barrels with restraint, so that the oak remains discreet and lets the fruit and freshness of the terroir shine through.

This wine reveals notes of violet, blackcurrant, blackberry, black cherry, white pepper, sweet spices, graphite and cherry stone. The expressive nose combines floral notes, black fruit and spice. The palate is full, with a juicy core, fine tannins and preserved freshness that balances the generosity of the vintage. The persistent, slightly saline finish extends the fruit and pepper.

Switzerland, a country known for its majestic mountains and shimmering lakes, also boasts a rich and diverse winemaking heritage. While less famous than its French or Italian neighbors, Swiss viticulture enjoys an excellent reputation thanks to the exceptional quality of its wines. Swiss vineyards are primarily located in the regions of Vaud, Valais, Geneva, Neuchâtel, and Ticino, each offering unique climatic conditions and soils that lend themselves to the cultivation of distinct grape varieties. Valais is the largest wine-growing region in Switzerland, renowned for its aromatic white wines such as Fendant, made from Chasselas grapes, and for powerful reds like Cornalin and Humagne Rouge. The region's dry, sunny climate, combined with schist and granite soils, creates ideal conditions for these grape varieties. The Vaud region, particularly around Lake Geneva, is renowned for its elegant white wines, notably the Lavaux wines, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These terraced vineyards offer not only wines of great finesse but also spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Geneva, while smaller in terms of wine production, is dynamic and innovative, producing a variety of wines ranging from classic Chasselas and Gamay to experiments with international grape varieties. Ticino, close to Italy, is dominated by Merlot, which is vinified there as both red and white (Merlot Blanc is vinified without contact with the grape skins). The mild climate and clay-limestone soils give these wines remarkable structure and complexity. Neuchâtel excels in the production of white wines, particularly its Chasselas, but is also known for its Œil-de-Perdrix, a delicate and highly regarded rosé. Swiss wines, often produced in small quantities but with meticulous attention to detail, are primarily consumed locally or exported in small amounts, making them hidden gems for connoisseurs and wine lovers worldwide. Switzerland is a country where tradition and innovation meet in the vineyards, offering an authentic and high-quality wine experience.