Graubünden as a wine canton
Graubünden is a Swiss wine canton. The Bündner Rhine Valley is a wine-growing region with vineyards located predominantly at around 500 to 600 metres above sea level. The north-south orientation of the Chur Rhine Valley encourages the influence of the föhn and shapes the mild climate. In the Bündner Herrschaft, slate soils with a high lime content occur.
Fläsch and the vineyard areas
Fläsch is the northernmost municipality of the Bündner Herrschaft wine-growing region. The municipal centre lies at 528 metres above sea level, while the municipal territory reaches 2,599 metres at Vorder Grauspitz. The municipality lists 65 hectares of vineyard area.
Grape varieties and wine styles
Pinot Noir is the most important grape variety in Graubünden and accounts for around two thirds of the vineyard area; for 2023, 287 hectares are stated. Other red varieties include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Garanoir. For white varieties, among others, Riesling × Silvaner, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Freisamer and the regional speciality Completer are documented. Pinot Noir is produced both lightly and fruity as well as in a complex style. The range also includes Rosé, Blanc de Noir and sparkling wine; Completer results in firm, characterful wines.
History and quality regulations
The oldest documented indication of winegrowing in today’s Graubünden dates from the year 765. Around 1630, Pinot Noir was introduced in Graubünden. Quality-oriented practices include hand harvesting, yield limitation since 1993 and ageing in barrique. Regional wines also ripen in historic vault cellars. The controlled designation of origin is AOC Graubünden. A municipal-name addition requires that at least 60 percent of the wine comes from the relevant municipality; for a named vineyard site, 100 percent is required. Wines with a controlled designation of origin are checked through chemical sample analyses and a sensory inspection of the wine ready for sale.
