The Swiss canton of Valais drapes along either side of the Rhône River Valley, from the eastern shore of Lake Geneva to the 15,203-foot summit of Monte Rosa. Home to dozens of mountain resorts, including Zermatt, Saas-Fee, Crans-Montana, and Verbier, the Valais has a distinctive climate and glacier-carved geography that also make it exceptional for grape growing. Forty-eight varietals are bottled by 700 winemakers—yet less than two percent leaves Switzerland. (Translation: You can only get them in-country.)
Here’s what to look for on wine lists around the region:
Fendant
Best with: raclette, fondue, other cheese, or fish; also as an aperitif
Expect to pay: $19–$23
Ermitage
Best with: dates, Roquefort
Expect to pay: $100
Humagne Rouge
Best with: game and heavier meats
Expect to pay: $27–$43
Cornalin
Best with: côte de boeuf, spicy or pungent food
Expect to pay: $43–$80
