Early travelers were fascinated by Valais wines

Numerous authors have described the Rhone valley in their chronicles and tales of travels, dating back to the Renaissance. They speak of the exceptional climate, the rich soil, the diverse cultures and the quality of the wines. They point to the compelling contrast between the “fearsome” and “wild” Alpine peaks and the “sunny and picturesque farmland” of the plain.
The vine, which hugs the sides of the mountains with its generous branches and leaves, and its gentle hues, is a symbol of the victory of people over nature, of order over chaos. The wine bears witness to the southern side of the region’s character –“dense”, “robust”, “delicious to drink”; it resembles the dark, tannic wines of Spain. During their journeys through the Alps, travelers drink Valais wines with pleasure. They find the wines good, even exquisite. Muscat has pride of place for its aromas and fruity flavour. They do, however, sometimes mention the thick and heavy nature of the red wines.

Wine is more than just a drink. It’s a food, foremost, before being a pleasure, appreciated during religious and community ceremonies. Mountain people drink it parsimoniously and use it for trade.

Sourced from
ARLETTAZ Sylvie, « La vigne et le vin dans les récits des voyageurs, de la Renaissance à la fin du XIXe siècle » in Histoire de la Vigne et du Vin en Valais : des origines à nos jours, Sierre-Salgesch, Musée valaisan de la Vigne et du Vin, Gollion, Infolio, 2009.