Discover the fascinating grape varieties in Graubünden
- Jun 5
- 4 min read
Graubünden is known not only for its breathtaking mountains and idyllic landscapes, but also for its exceptional wines. The wine region boasts an exciting variety of grape varieties that delight both connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Among 39 other varieties you can find the Pinot Noir or Blauburgunder, Completer, and Chardonnay varieties particularly intriguing. In this post, I'll take you on a journey through the vineyards of Graubünden and introduce you to these three grapes that define the character of the region.
The diversity of grape varieties in Graubünden
Graubünden is one of Switzerland's most diverse wine regions. The grapes grow at altitudes ranging from 500 to over 650 meters. The climate is characterized by cool nights and warm days, which gives the grapes a special freshness and complexity.
Besides well-known varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, there are also lesser-known, but all the more rare, grapes such as Completer. This diversity makes the wines from Graubünden so unique and exciting.
Pinot Noir – The classic with finesse and character
Pinot Noir is one of the world's finest red grape varieties and has a long tradition in Graubünden. Legend has it that the Duc de Rohan brought these grapes to the region with his troops. The grape is demanding to cultivate, but when it thrives, it produces elegant and complex wines.
In Graubünden, Pinot Noir, also known as Blauburgunder, displays a delicate fruitiness reminiscent of cherries and berries. At the same time, it possesses a pleasant spiciness and a subtle earthiness that makes the wine special. The cool nights in the Graubünden vineyards help to preserve the acidity, giving the wines freshness and vibrancy.
Completer – The hidden achient pearl
Completer is an old, almost forgotten white grape variety found in only a few vineyards worldwide. This grape is particularly exciting because it is unique and produces wines with a very distinctive character.
Completer wines are characterized by their crisp acidity, can age indefinitely, and harmonize well with oak barrels. After decades of aging, they can develop into incomparably complex wines. For wine lovers who enjoy discovering new things, a completer is a true highlight.
You want to know how Completer got it's name and how it ended up here? - I will tell you on your next wine tour with us!
Chardonnay – The elegant white wine
Chardonnay is known and loved worldwide, but this grape also has a firm place in Graubünden. Wines made from Chardonnay grapes here are well-structured and often achieve a wonderful harmony with oak barrels. These wines are often mineral, with a certain intensity, and are ideal food companions.
The cool temperatures ensure that the wines do not become too heavy, but retain a pleasant lightness.
Why Graubünden is a special wine region
The combination of climate, soil, and tradition makes Graubünden a unique wine region. On many days, the southerly Föhn wind helps to pump more energy into the grapes. The high altitude and mountain breezes ensure cool nights, which help the grapes retain their acidity. The soils are often stony and mineral-rich, giving the wines a special depth and minerality.
Furthermore, many winegrowers here practice sustainable and natural farming methods. Around 30% of the wineries are certified organic or in conversion. This is reflected in the quality of the wines, which are often produced with great care and manual labor.
For those who would like to learn more about the wines and the region, a wine tour with Wine Tours Switzerland is a great option. There, you can not only taste the wines but also get to know the landscape and the people behind them.
Tips for wine lovers and groups
If you'd like to spend some quality time with friends, colleagues, or your club, wine tours in Graubünden are a great idea. You can not only get to know different grape varieties, but also experience the region from a new perspective.
Wine Tours Switzerland offers individual and group events perfectly tailored to the participants' wishes. Whether a relaxed wine tasting, a hike through the vineyards, or a culinary event – everyone will find the perfect experience here.
This makes a visit to Graubünden an unforgettable moment of enjoyment, where you can experience the grape varieties and their stories up close.
Conclusion
Graubünden is a treasure trove for wine lovers. The grape varieties Pinot Noir, Completer, and Chardonnay impressively demonstrate the diversity and excitement of the wines from this region. And if that's not enough, there are 39 more grape varieties to discover in Graubünden.
I invite you to discover these wines for yourself and get to know the region in all its facets. A wine tour with Wine Tours Switzerland is the perfect starting point. This way you can taste authentic wines and experience the passion of the winemakers.
Set off and experience the fascinating world of Graubünden's grape varieties and wines!
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