Grape variety
Humagne Rouge
A rustic, fragrant Valais red, made for game
On Helvitic you buy your Humagne Rouge directly from the Valais cellars that make it, delivered to your door (free shipping from CHF 150 per cellar) or picked up at the cellar. Humagne Rouge is a typical red grape of the Valais, rustic and fragrant.
Despite its name, it has nothing to do with Humagne Blanche. DNA analysis has shown that it is Cornalin d'Aoste, grown in the neighbouring Aosta Valley.
Where Humagne Rouge grows
It is found mainly in central Valais. The vine is vigorous and ripens fairly late, so it needs good, well-exposed slopes.
What Humagne Rouge tastes like
The nose suggests violet, forest floor, bark, sometimes game, with peppery notes. The tannins are present, a little rustic in youth; oak ageing and a few years in the cellar round them off.
What to serve with Humagne Rouge
It is the traditional game wine of the Valais: civet, venison, deer. It also suits the autumn brisolée, grilled red meat and characterful cheeses. Lightly oaked and served slightly cool, it even stands up to raclette.
Frequently asked questions: Humagne Rouge
Humagne Rouge and Humagne Blanche: how are they related?
They are not, apart from the name. They are two different grapes, one red, one white.
Is Humagne Rouge the same as Cornalin?
Not the Valais Cornalin. But Humagne Rouge is genetically identical to Cornalin d'Aoste, a grape of the Aosta Valley, hence the frequent mix-up between the names.
What to serve with Humagne Rouge?
Game in sauce, a brisolée, grilled red meat or an aged alpine cheese.