Cornalin Pietra Plata 2022

From the sunny slopes of Valais, Pierre Elie Carron 's Cornalin Pietra Plata cuvée embodies the pure essence of this iconic Swiss grape variety. Grown on stony, steep terroirs, between high altitudes and dry stone walls, this Cornalin AOC Valais is the fruit of a vineyard that respects biodiversity and is deeply rooted in the Alpine winemaking tradition.

The vinification of this exceptional vintage is carried out with great precision: the grapes, harvested at perfect maturity, are vinified in stainless steel vats and then partially aged in barrels, in order to preserve the natural expression of the fruit while providing an elegant and melted structure. The name Pietra Plata , meaning "silver stone", refers to the mineral soils that mark the identity of this distinguished wine.

Upon tasting, the wine reveals a deep red color with purple highlights. The nose opens with intense aromas of black fruits such as blackberry, blackcurrant, wild cherry, sweet spices, licorice , and smoky notes. On the palate, the attack is full and silky, supported by fine tannins and a mineral freshness typical of the high Valais hillsides. The finish, long and vibrant, demonstrates a perfect balance between power and elegance.

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