"Chasselas only reveals itself to those who take the time to listen to it; it is an invitation to travel, evoking the landscape from which it comes." This phrase, taken from a brochure published by the Office des Vins Vaudois, aptly summarizes the character of this very particular grape variety. Indeed, few wines manage to express their terroir as faithfully. Rather mineral and lively on limestone soil, it becomes fruity and expressive on granitic soil.
Many legends surround the origin of Chasselas. It was long believed to have an Eastern origin due to its resemblance to a grape variety discovered in Egypt, Fayoumi. Then, a connection with Turkey was suggested, from where an ambassador of François 1er supposedly brought back Chasselas vines to plant the famous "Roy" vine at Fontainebleau. While the vine still exists, Chasselas definitely does not come from Turkey.
About ten years ago, Valais geneticist and ampelographer José Vouillamoz revealed, following highly specialized scientific research, that Chasselas is of Vaudois origin. The researcher did not simply study the plant genetically. He also consulted historical documents. Some of them date from the 14th century, in which a grape variety bearing the name "Lausannois or Luzannois" is mentioned.
Furthermore, the term "Fendant" formerly designated a variety cultivated in the canton of Vaud long before it was introduced to Valais. Many Vaudois invested in viticulture in Valais during the 19th century. Gradually, the canton of Vaud abandoned the name Fendant in favor of village appellations. Fendant then became exclusively associated with Valais. Fendant is a particular type of grape whose berries split when pressed between the fingers. It contrasts with the "Giclet" type, whose grapes squirt. However, it was not until 1966 that Fendant from Valais obtained its protected appellation. All this after thirty years of political and viticultural tribulations!
While they differ in taste, the Chasselas from the two largest wine-producing cantons share the conviviality that develops around a good glass of this precious beverage.
