Introduction: Malvoisie AOC Valais white wine
This wine is of course just one of many excellent Valais white wines that we have in our range. In our online shop you will also find a large selection of rosé wines, red wines, sparkling wines and digestifs.
If you are looking for a gift, we recommend the various tasting boxes from our gift service, for example, or a gift voucher, which gives the recipient a free choice in our online shop.
The most important facts at a glance
Malvoisie is the traditional name in Valais for the Pinot gris grape, also known as Pinot Noir. The name “Malvoisie” is derived from “Malvasia”, the Italian term for sweet grape varieties. Depending on the region, this term is used synonymously for different varieties, such as Pinot Gris (Pinot Gris) in Valais, the Aosta Valley and the Loire Valley, Vermentino in Corsica and Traminer in South Tyrol.
Like the Pinot blanc, the Pinot gris grape is a spontaneous genetic mutation of the Pinot noir, which has changed color.
The grapes in Valais are generally harvested overripe, sometimes with noble rot. The Oechsle level is always above 120°. Thanks to the high fructose content, a residual sweetness remains in the Malvoisie after alcoholic fermentation is complete.
Whether sweet or dry, this is a concentrated, powerful wine with a lot of body. The nose reveals a multi-layered bouquet with notes of quince jelly, mirabelle plum jam, honey, candied fruit (French: fruits confits) and oriental spices. On the palate, this white wine impresses with its richness and sweetness.
Origin, origins & significance of the Pinot gris grape variety
It is assumed that the grape variety originated in Burgundy or Champagne in France and spread from there from 1375.
The Malvoisie grape variety is also known as Pinot Gris or Pinot Noir. While the Pinot Noir grape turns blue-black, the Malvoisie grape tends to turn grey to light red.
This discoloration also explains the name. When fully ripe, the Malvoisie grape reaches a light purple color, which indicates that the grapes are ready to be harvested.
The grape variety is cultivated on almost 43,000 hectares worldwide, even in Australia and New Zealand. In Italy, the world’s leading wine-growing country for this grape variety, Pinot grigio is cultivated on around 19,000 hectares.
It is also well-known and important in Germany, where it is marketed as a light white wine under the name Grauburgunder or as a sweet and heavy white wine made from very ripe and sometimes rotten grapes under the name Ruländer, depending on when it is harvested.
In Valais in Switzerland, the grape variety was first mentioned in a recipe book in the second half of the 17th century under the traditional term Malvoisie. The grape variety belongs to the noble vines(Vitis vinifera subsp. vinifera) and is vinified on almost 70 hectares in Valais.
Malvoisie and its synonyms
No fewer than 227 synonyms are known for Pinot gris, which is an indication of its wide distribution. One of the synonyms is Malvoisie, which is cultivated in Valais as AOC Valais.
Characteristics of the Malvoisie grape: growth, ripeness and yield
This compact grape thrives best on hot and well-ventilated south-facing slopes, as its thin skin not only makes it precocious, but also susceptible to powdery mildew and downy mildew.
This makes it one of the most demanding grape varieties in viticulture, and the winemaker must demonstrate a delicate touch and all his skills in handling this grape. Harvesting usually takes place in November, when the grapes are overripe or sometimes already affected by noble rot.
Taste profile of the Malvoisie: Complex and expressive fruit aromas, full-bodied, low acidity
As a dry white wine, the Pinot gris is said to have light apple notes and a lovely freshness. In the sweet wine version, Malvoisie has a beguiling start with light almond and honey aromas. Delicate and complex aromas of quince and exotic, candied dried fruit complete the bouquet.
On the palate, the wine is fruity, powerful and supple, with a long succession of flavors and a wonderfully sweet and long finish.
Vinification and production
Vinification of the Malvoisie
The grapes are usually harvested as a late harvest in November and traditionally matured in steel tanks. Thanks to the high fruit sugar content, a residual sweetness remains in the Malvoisie after alcoholic fermentation is complete.
Culinary recommendations
Dishes to go with Malvoisie
The Malvoisie La Valaisanne AOC Valais from Diego Mathier is recommended with all sweet dishes, mature cheeses and spicy Asian dishes. The wine is a perfect accompaniment to tasty goose liver on toast.
Malvoisie is particularly suitable as an aperitif and enhances fine pastry dishes and frozen desserts.
Things to know about Malvoisie
Here is an overview of important facts about wines made from the Malvoisie grape.
What does Malvasia taste like?
Taste & enjoyment: The golden yellow Malvasia white wines are characterized by an intense bouquet. They offer aromas of pome fruit and acacia honey, complemented by subtle notes of nutmeg. In the Canary Islands, Malvasia is often produced as a sweet and aromatic dessert wine.
Where does Malvasia grow?
This grape variety is cultivated on around 1,250 hectares in Apulia, Campania and Tuscany. Outside of Italy, it can only be found on 16 hectares in Spain.
