Grape variety
Cornalin
The “rouge du pays”, indigenous pride of the Valais
On Helvitic you buy your Cornalin directly from the Valais cellars that make them, delivered to your door (free shipping from CHF 150 per cellar) or picked up at the cellar. Cornalin — historically called “rouge du pays” (country red) — is one of the oldest red grapes of the Valais, grown almost exclusively in the canton.
Long neglected for being capricious in the vineyard, it was rescued and revived by passionate winemakers, to the point of becoming the great red pride of the Valais: a dark robe, a nose of black cherry and spice, a fleshy palate carried by fine tannins. A characterful red that rivals the greats — and is found almost nowhere else.
Frequently asked questions — Cornalin
Why is Cornalin called “rouge du pays”?
It is its historic name in the Valais, where it has been grown for centuries. The name “Cornalin” took over in the 20th century. A demanding, irregular grape, it had almost disappeared before being revived by Valais winemakers — it remains an almost total exclusivity of the canton.
What is the profile of a Cornalin?
A dark red robe with violet glints, an intense nose of black cherry, morello and spice, a fleshy, fresh palate with fine tannins. Young, it is fruity and crunchy; after a few years of ageing it gains depth.
What to pair with a Cornalin?
Red meat, feathered game, duck breast, and Valais classics such as the dried-meat platter. Its freshness and fine tannins make it equally at home with a slow-cooked dish or a mature alpine cheese.