French Grapes
Chasselas
Chasselas is a white wine grape from the Savoie region in the French Alps
About Chasselas
Chasselas is an early ripening grape variety. It is well suited to the cool weather in the alpine slopes of Savoie in France (French Chasselas) and Switzerland Swiss Chasselas).
In the Loir region in France, Chasselas is blended with Sauvignon Blanc to produce a wine called "Pouilly-sur-Loire".
Chasselas Flavors
Citrus, Apple, Pear, and white Peach are typical Chasselas flavors, with hints of Herbs, Flowers, and "flinty" Minerals.
 Lemon |
 Lime |
 Apple |
 Pear |
 Herbs |
 Flowers |
 Peach |
 Flint |
Chasselas Profile
Chasselas wines are dry, aromatic, and acidic:
| SUGAR: | Dry (3 g/l) |
| BODY: | Light |
| FRUIT: | Medium |
| ACIDITY: | Medium - High |
| ALCOHOL: | 12-13% ABV |
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Serving temperature: 8-10°C (46-50°F) |
Chasselas Food Pairing
Chasselas works well with Gilled Fish, composed Salads, and Soufflés.
 Aperitif |
 Salads |
 Fish |
 Cheese |
Excellent Pairings
Alpine Cuisine. Fish Dishes.
Grilled Fish. Lake Fish. River Fish. Trout.
Cheeses
Raclette. Beaufort. Comté Gruyère.
Soufflé. Fondue.
French Spesialities
Snails or Prawns with Garlic.
Fried Chicken with French Fries.
The Ideal Glass for Chasselas
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The Sauvignon Blanc glass is smaller than a Chardonnay glass. It has a more narrow bowl to concentrate the crisp and citrusy aromas of zesty and fruity white wines. |
Chasselas Cheese Pairing
Chasselas is known for its crisp and fruity profile. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses.
Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the Chasselas's acidity.
Add fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), or a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.
Fresh and Mild Cheeses
Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes in Chasselas.
Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.
Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.
Soft Cheeses
Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Chasselas.
Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.
Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.
Semi-Hard Cheeses
Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.
Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.
Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang to the cheese.
Blue Cheeses (for contrast)
Gorgonzola Dolce: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.
If You Like Chasselas
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Wine Region Savoie
Savoie vineyard under Mont Blanc
Black Grapes |
White Grapes |
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Red Wines |
White Wines |
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Domaine De L'idylle vineyard in Savoie
Climate
The alpine climate is cool, with significant temperature variations between day and night, which contributes to the freshness and acidity of the wines produced in the region.
Soil
The vineyards of Savoie are often planted on steep slopes, taking advantage of the varied altitudes and exposures.
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