W3 Wine School

Chasselas (Switzerland)

Chasselas is Switzerland's most planted white-wine grape.

Fendant is a Chasselas from the region of Valais.

Chasselas Flavors

Citrus, Apple, Pear, and white Peach are typical Chasselas flavors, with hints of Herbs, Flowers, and "flinty" Minerals.

Lemon
Lemon
Lime
Lime
Apple
Apple
Pear
Pear
Herbs
Herbs
Flowers
Flowers
Peach
Peach
Flint
Flint

Chasselas Profile

Chasselas wines are dry, aromatic, and acidic:

SUGAR:Dry 3g/l
BODY:Light
FRUIT:Medium
ACIDITY:Medium - High
ALCOHOL:12-13% ABV
Temperature Serving temperature:
8-10°C (46-50°F)

Chasselas Food Pairing

Chasselas works well with Gilled Fish, composed Salads, and Soufflés.

Aperitif
Aperitif
Salads
Salads
Fish
Fish
Cheese
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

The Sauvignon Blanc glass is smaller than a Chardonnay glass.

It has a more narrow bowl to concentrate the crisp and citrusy aromas characteristic of zesty and fruity white wines.

Chasselas Cheese Pairing

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

You May Also Like:

Altesse (France)
Arneis (Italy)
Chenin Blanc Dry (France)
Douro Branco (Portugal)
Etna Bianco (Italy)
Falangina (Italy)
Fiano (Italy)
Kerner (Germany)
Riesling (Alsace, France)
Rousette (France)
Roupeiro (Portugal)
Vermentino (Italy)
Verdicchio (Italy)

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".

The Fendant Appelation

Fendant is a Chasselas from the Valais region. The appellation was introduced in 1850, and since protected in 1966, all Chasselas from Valais are now called Fendant.


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