Valais Raclette: The State-of-the-Art Scraped Cheese
Raclette is the most iconic dish of Valais, referring both to the cheese (Raclette du Valais AOP) and the method of preparation.
- Raclette's Signature:
- Origin: Raclette originated in Valais over four centuries ago, traditionally eaten by shepherds who melted the cheese by an open fire and scraped off the soft parts.
- Preparation: The term Raclette comes from the French verb racler, meaning "to scrape." Conventionally, a half-wheel of cheese is heated until melting, and the hot, smooth cheese is scraped onto the plate.
- Classic Pairing: The melted cheese is typically served with boiled potatoes, pickled gherkins (cornichons), pickled onions, and local cured meats (viande sechee).
- Wine Pairing: The rich fat and saltiness of Raclette finds its golden match in the local, crisp, high-acidity white wine, Fendant (Chasselas).
Distinctive Valais Wines (Vins du Valais)
Valais is Switzerland's largest and most significant wine region. Its vineyards are often located on steep terraces along the Rhone Valley, renowned for their high altitude and extreme diurnal temperature shifts.
White Wines (Vins Blancs)
Valais white wines are characterized by high acidity, pristine purity, and prominent mineral notes.
- Fendant (Chasselas):
- Known locally as Fendant, this is the national white wine of Valais. It is fresh, with apple, floral, and mineral notes, and soft acidity, suitable for pairing and aperitifs.
- Petite Arvine:
- The star variety of Valais, known for its fuller body. Its flavor is highly distinctive, often showing citrus and grapefruit aromas along with its signature salinity, making it excellent with seafood.
- Amigne:
- A rare, ancient native variety, often produced in both dry and sweet styles (Grain Noble). The sweet version features flavors of honey, apricot, and nuts.
Red Wines (Vins Rouges)
Due to the climate, Valais red wines generally retain elegant acidity and delicate complexity.
- Cornalin:
- A traditional native red grape. It is deep in color, full-bodied, and layered, with notes of black cherry, herbs, and spice, and strong tannic structure.
- Humagne Rouge:
- A Valais native variety, considered to possess rustic or wild undertones (like leather or wild blackberry). It has softer tannins and pairs well with rich meat dishes.
- Dole:
- This is a blend, typically composed of Pinot Noir and Gamay. It is light-bodied and intensely fruity, making it one of the most popular everyday red wines in Valais.
Valais wines are rarely exported, making tasting them the most direct and unique way to experience the region's distinctive terroir.