Grape varieties
White Grape Varieties grown in the AVY Vineyards
Divico
Origin
Developed in 1996 at the Agroscope research center in Pully, Divico is a cross between Gamaret and Bronner.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Divico is a late ripening grape variety with the particularity of being resistant to mildew, oidium and grey rot. This allows winegrowers to drastically reduce the use of phytosanitary products.
Oenological potential
Appreciated for its color and rich tannins, Divico can be vinified as its own or as a blend.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2018): 42 ha
Main producing countries:
- Grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland
Chasselas
Origin
The origin of Chasselas has been a subject of much controversy, although it most probably originated in the Lake Geneva region.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Chasselas ripens early and can be grown in a wide range of terroirs, but it is vulnerable to water stress and insufficient nitrogen.
Oenological potential
It is a discreet grape variety whose characteristics, such as its fruity, floral and mineral notes, derive largely from the terroir in which it has grown. On the palate, the wine is generally soft and fruity while its structure varies, depending on the climate and soil in which it was grown.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 3,885 ha
Main producing countries:
- Romania
- Hungary
- France
- Germany
- Russia
Chardonnay
Origin
The Chardonnay grape originated in Bourgogne. Like Gamay, it is the result of a natural cross between the Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc varieties.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Chardonnay is a Period 1 variety, susceptible to grey mould and oidium. It is not advisable to grow it in overly fertile soils or in areas that are too hot and humid.
Oenological potential
A characteristic of this extremely versatile variety is to produce wines of great aromatic complexity which can include notes of citrus fruit, pineapple, banana and butter. These wines are subtle, generally rich and well-structured.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 351 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- United States
- Australia
- Italy
- Chile
Doral
Origin
Doral is a cross between Chasselas and Chardonnay, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil ACW Research Station, in 1965.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
It is an early variety and fairly susceptible to grey mould, and should therefore be grown in relatively infertile, well-drained soils.
Oenological potential
Aromatically complex, combining among others floral notes and notes of apricot and citrus fruit, Doral wines are generally full-bodied and relatively lively. The variety is also suitable for producing sparkling and sweet wines.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 34 ha
Main producing countries:
- a variety grown mainly in Switzerland
Pinot Blanc
Origin
Pinot Blanc, a white mutation of Pinot Noir, probably originated in Bourgogne.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
An early Period I variety, it can be grown in relatively cool areas. It is very susceptible to grey mould and needs well-ventilated terroirs with gravelly and moderately fertile soils.
Oenological potential
Pinot Blanc wines show finesse and discretion and are generally elegant, full-bodied and generous. These low aromatic wines can bring body and structure to blends.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 108 ha
Main producing countries:
- Italy
- Germany
- Russia
- Austria
- Ukraine
Sauvignon Blanc
Origin
Sauvignon Blanc originated in France (south-west/centre).
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Ripening is variable, Period I or II depending on the terroir where it was grown. The Sauvignon Blanc needs to be grown in moderately fertile soil that is well-drained but with no water deficit.
Oenological potential
Sauvignon Blanc wines are complex and distinctive, typically with notes of blackcurrant, boxwood, exotic fruit, and white fruit. They are generally lively, with a hint of acidity, racy and well-structured.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 162 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- Chile
- Australia
Viognier
Origin
Viognier originated in the northern area of the Côtes-du-Rhône region.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Viognier is a Period II variety and prefers fairly infertile, gravelly soils which generate a certain level of water stress.
Oenological potential
Viognier wines are expressive and distinctive, typically revealing notes of apricot, peach, and citrus fruit. They are generally powerful, supple, buttery and smooth.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 43 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- Australia
- United States
- Argentina
- Chile
Cabernet Franc
Origin
Cabernet Franc probably originated in south-west France.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A late Period II variety, Cabernet Franc needs a hot climate and moderately fertile soils that generate a certain level of water stress.
Oenological potential
A grape variety with an expressive and very characteristic bouquet including notes of spices, raspberry, and violets, Cabernet Franc makes wines that have finesse, complexity and balance, with a moderately tannic structure.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 60 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- Italy
- United States
- Chile
- South Africa
Dakapo
Origin
Dakapo is a cross between the Deckrot and Blue Portuguese grape varieties, created at the Geisenheim Research Institute, in 1972.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
An early Period I ripening variety, susceptible to grey mould, Dakapo likes moderately fertile soils situated in fairly cool and dry areas.
Oenological potential
Dakapo is deeply coloured, neutral and tannic, and lends itself well to blending.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 15 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in Germany.
Diolinoir
Origin
Diolinoir is a cross between the Robin Noir and Pinot Noir varieties, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil ACW Research Station, in 1970.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
It is a late Period I variety that likes fairly infertile soils that are dry and well-drained.
Oenological potential
A discreet variety with a fine bouquet of black fruit, Diolinoir generally produces a powerful, rich and full-bodied wine with a lot of colour which lends itself well to blending. It is also, however, capable of providing beautiful wines on its own.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 120 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland.
Galotta
Origin
Galotta is a cross between the Ancelotta and Gamay varieties, created at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station, in 1981.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A late Period I variety, Galotta needs moderately fertile soils situated in temperate areas.
Oenological potential
A discreet variety with a fine bouquet of red and black fruit, Galotta makes wines that are generally sturdy and powerful, with a rich phenol aroma. Like Diolinoir, it lends itself particularly well to blending but can also yield beautiful wines on its own.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 31 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in Switzerland
Gamaret
Origin
Gamaret is a cross between the Gamay and Reichensteiner varieties, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station, in 1970.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A Period I variety which can also benefit from late harvesting, Gamaret is suited to a wide range of terroirs, although dry, early-harvest regions should be avoided.
Oenological potential
Gamaret wines have a complex bouquet with aromas of spice and fruit. They generally have a deep colour, and rich tannins that give them a powerful structure. They can be used in blending, but can also be aged in barrels to produce excellent wines that are ideal for laying down.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 423 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in Switzerland, and recently also in the Beaujolais region.
Gamay
Origin
Gamay originated in France. Like Chardonnay, it results from the crossbreeding of Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A late Period I variety, Gamay fares best in a very temperate environment and particularly well-drained and moderately fertile soils.
Oenological potential
This grape variety has a fruity bouquet with notes of blackcurrant, raspberry and banana, and sometimes a spicy flavour. It makes soft wines that are fresh and fruity. The structure of the wine varies, depending on the place where it was grown, the climate and the yield.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 1,382 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in France and Italy
Garanoir
Origin
Garanoir is a cross between the Gamay and Reichensteiner varieties, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station, in 1970.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
An early variety, Garanoir prefers terroirs in the cool areas of the vineyard. It is not very vigorous and therefore needs soils that are fairly fertile and not too gravelly.
Oenological potential
Garanoir wines have a spicy bouquet and are deep-coloured, soft and fruity. Their structure makes them equally well-suited for single-varietals or blends.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 223 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland
Mara
Origin
The Mara variety is a cross between the Gamay and Reichensteiner grapes, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station in 1970, and registered in 2009.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
It is an early variety and can be grown in a relatively wide range of terroirs although particularly hot and dry areas should be avoided.
Oenological potential
With its complex bouquet and notes of black fruit and spices, Mara makes deep-coloured, strong and full-bodied wines.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 9 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland.
Pinot Noir
Origin
Pinot Noir appears to have originated in north-east France.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A very early variety, Pinot Noir likes gravelly and fairly infertile soils situated in warm areas with a fair degree of humidity.
Oenological potential
Pinot Noir wine has a fine and complex bouquet which reveals, among others, notes of kirsch, morello cherries and blackberries. The volume, power and structure of the wine vary depending on the place where it was grown, the climate and the yield.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 4,261 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- United States
- Germany
- Australia
- New Zealand
Divico
Origin
Developed in 1996 at the Agroscope research center in Pully, Divico is a cross between Gamaret and Bronner.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Divico is a late ripening grape variety with the particularity of being resistant to mildew, oidium and grey rot. This allows winegrowers to drastically reduce the use of phytosanitary products.
Oenological potential
Appreciated for its color and rich tannins, Divico can be vinified as its own or as a blend.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2018): 42 ha
Main producing countries:
- Grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland
Chasselas
Origin
The origin of Chasselas has been a subject of much controversy, although it most probably originated in the Lake Geneva region.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Chasselas ripens early and can be grown in a wide range of terroirs, but it is vulnerable to water stress and insufficient nitrogen.
Oenological potential
It is a discreet grape variety whose characteristics, such as its fruity, floral and mineral notes, derive largely from the terroir in which it has grown. On the palate, the wine is generally soft and fruity while its structure varies, depending on the climate and soil in which it was grown.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 3,885 ha
Main producing countries:
- Romania
- Hungary
- France
- Germany
- Russia
Chardonnay
Origin
The Chardonnay grape originated in Bourgogne. Like Gamay, it is the result of a natural cross between the Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc varieties.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Chardonnay is a Period 1 variety, susceptible to grey mould and oidium. It is not advisable to grow it in overly fertile soils or in areas that are too hot and humid.
Oenological potential
A characteristic of this extremely versatile variety is to produce wines of great aromatic complexity which can include notes of citrus fruit, pineapple, banana and butter. These wines are subtle, generally rich and well-structured.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 351 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- United States
- Australia
- Italy
- Chile
Doral
Origin
Doral is a cross between Chasselas and Chardonnay, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil ACW Research Station, in 1965.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
It is an early variety and fairly susceptible to grey mould, and should therefore be grown in relatively infertile, well-drained soils.
Oenological potential
Aromatically complex, combining among others floral notes and notes of apricot and citrus fruit, Doral wines are generally full-bodied and relatively lively. The variety is also suitable for producing sparkling and sweet wines.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 34 ha
Main producing countries:
- a variety grown mainly in Switzerland
Pinot Blanc
Origin
Pinot Blanc, a white mutation of Pinot Noir, probably originated in Bourgogne.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
An early Period I variety, it can be grown in relatively cool areas. It is very susceptible to grey mould and needs well-ventilated terroirs with gravelly and moderately fertile soils.
Oenological potential
Pinot Blanc wines show finesse and discretion and are generally elegant, full-bodied and generous. These low aromatic wines can bring body and structure to blends.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 108 ha
Main producing countries:
- Italy
- Germany
- Russia
- Austria
- Ukraine
Sauvignon Blanc
Origin
Sauvignon Blanc originated in France (south-west/centre).
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Ripening is variable, Period I or II depending on the terroir where it was grown. The Sauvignon Blanc needs to be grown in moderately fertile soil that is well-drained but with no water deficit.
Oenological potential
Sauvignon Blanc wines are complex and distinctive, typically with notes of blackcurrant, boxwood, exotic fruit, and white fruit. They are generally lively, with a hint of acidity, racy and well-structured.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 162 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- Chile
- Australia
Viognier
Origin
Viognier originated in the northern area of the Côtes-du-Rhône region.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Viognier is a Period II variety and prefers fairly infertile, gravelly soils which generate a certain level of water stress.
Oenological potential
Viognier wines are expressive and distinctive, typically revealing notes of apricot, peach, and citrus fruit. They are generally powerful, supple, buttery and smooth.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 43 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- Australia
- United States
- Argentina
- Chile
Cabernet Franc
Origin
Cabernet Franc probably originated in south-west France.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A late Period II variety, Cabernet Franc needs a hot climate and moderately fertile soils that generate a certain level of water stress.
Oenological potential
A grape variety with an expressive and very characteristic bouquet including notes of spices, raspberry, and violets, Cabernet Franc makes wines that have finesse, complexity and balance, with a moderately tannic structure.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 60 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- Italy
- United States
- Chile
- South Africa
Dakapo
Origin
Dakapo is a cross between the Deckrot and Blue Portuguese grape varieties, created at the Geisenheim Research Institute, in 1972.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
An early Period I ripening variety, susceptible to grey mould, Dakapo likes moderately fertile soils situated in fairly cool and dry areas.
Oenological potential
Dakapo is deeply coloured, neutral and tannic, and lends itself well to blending.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 15 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in Germany.
Diolinoir
Origin
Diolinoir is a cross between the Robin Noir and Pinot Noir varieties, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil ACW Research Station, in 1970.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
It is a late Period I variety that likes fairly infertile soils that are dry and well-drained.
Oenological potential
A discreet variety with a fine bouquet of black fruit, Diolinoir generally produces a powerful, rich and full-bodied wine with a lot of colour which lends itself well to blending. It is also, however, capable of providing beautiful wines on its own.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 120 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland.
Galotta
Origin
Galotta is a cross between the Ancelotta and Gamay varieties, created at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station, in 1981.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A late Period I variety, Galotta needs moderately fertile soils situated in temperate areas.
Oenological potential
A discreet variety with a fine bouquet of red and black fruit, Galotta makes wines that are generally sturdy and powerful, with a rich phenol aroma. Like Diolinoir, it lends itself particularly well to blending but can also yield beautiful wines on its own.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 31 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in Switzerland
Gamaret
Origin
Gamaret is a cross between the Gamay and Reichensteiner varieties, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station, in 1970.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A Period I variety which can also benefit from late harvesting, Gamaret is suited to a wide range of terroirs, although dry, early-harvest regions should be avoided.
Oenological potential
Gamaret wines have a complex bouquet with aromas of spice and fruit. They generally have a deep colour, and rich tannins that give them a powerful structure. They can be used in blending, but can also be aged in barrels to produce excellent wines that are ideal for laying down.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 423 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in Switzerland, and recently also in the Beaujolais region.
Gamay
Origin
Gamay originated in France. Like Chardonnay, it results from the crossbreeding of Pinot Noir and Gouais Blanc.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A late Period I variety, Gamay fares best in a very temperate environment and particularly well-drained and moderately fertile soils.
Oenological potential
This grape variety has a fruity bouquet with notes of blackcurrant, raspberry and banana, and sometimes a spicy flavour. It makes soft wines that are fresh and fruity. The structure of the wine varies, depending on the place where it was grown, the climate and the yield.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 1,382 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown mainly in France and Italy
Garanoir
Origin
Garanoir is a cross between the Gamay and Reichensteiner varieties, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station, in 1970.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
An early variety, Garanoir prefers terroirs in the cool areas of the vineyard. It is not very vigorous and therefore needs soils that are fairly fertile and not too gravelly.
Oenological potential
Garanoir wines have a spicy bouquet and are deep-coloured, soft and fruity. Their structure makes them equally well-suited for single-varietals or blends.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 223 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland
Mara
Origin
The Mara variety is a cross between the Gamay and Reichensteiner grapes, obtained at the Agroscope Changins-Waedenswil ACW Research Station in 1970, and registered in 2009.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
It is an early variety and can be grown in a relatively wide range of terroirs although particularly hot and dry areas should be avoided.
Oenological potential
With its complex bouquet and notes of black fruit and spices, Mara makes deep-coloured, strong and full-bodied wines.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 9 ha
Main producing countries:
- a grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland.
Pinot Noir
Origin
Pinot Noir appears to have originated in north-east France.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
A very early variety, Pinot Noir likes gravelly and fairly infertile soils situated in warm areas with a fair degree of humidity.
Oenological potential
Pinot Noir wine has a fine and complex bouquet which reveals, among others, notes of kirsch, morello cherries and blackberries. The volume, power and structure of the wine vary depending on the place where it was grown, the climate and the yield.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2014): 4,261 ha
Main producing countries:
- France
- United States
- Germany
- Australia
- New Zealand
Divico
Origin
Developed in 1996 at the Agroscope research center in Pully, Divico is a cross between Gamaret and Bronner.
Ripening and preferred terroirs
Divico is a late ripening grape variety with the particularity of being resistant to mildew, oidium and grey rot. This allows winegrowers to drastically reduce the use of phytosanitary products.
Oenological potential
Appreciated for its color and rich tannins, Divico can be vinified as its own or as a blend.
Land surface planted in Switzerland (OFAG 2018): 42 ha
Main producing countries:
- Grape variety grown exclusively in Switzerland