The know-how of Swiss winegrowers was honored in Bern
It may not have been a César or Oscar ceremony, but on Tuesday evening the masters of Swiss wine were celebrated with glitz, glamor and applause at the Kulturcasino in Bern.
It has long been taken for granted that Swiss crus can compete with the best international wines – a claim that was impressively confirmed by the 5th edition of the Grand Prix du Vin Suisse. “Six hundred wine cellars submitted over 3,000 wines, and almost 400 guests travelled to the event – an unprecedented success,” said Elisabeth Pasquier, Director of the VINEA association and co-organizer of the competition.
Personalities from the wine industry, media, business and politics, including Federal Councillor Johann Schneider-Ammann, gathered in the magnificent hall. They were all able to taste the best of the refined and complex Swiss art of wine. The evening was hosted by Sven Epiney.
The three best wines in eleven categories – including Pinot Noir, Assemblages Blancs and Gamay – were honored. The highlight of the evening was the “Swiss Winemaker of the Year” award. Diego Mathier from the Nouveau Salquenen winery in Salgesch, who had already won in 2007, took this title once again. Visibly moved, he urged the guests: “Go into the cellars and discover the treasures of Swiss viticulture.”
…
