Arvine

Petite arvine

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Characteristics

Name: 
Arvine
Other appellations: 
Petite arvine
Color: 
 White
Ancientness: 
Indigenous
Origin: 
Switzerland
Viticulture: 
-
Aromatic: 
-
Producers listed: 
43
Wines listed: 
72

Description

This flagship variety, native to Valais (Switzerland) is mentioned in records dating back to 1602 under the name Arvena, which could mean "upstart, new arrival". This etymology is explained by the fact that it is an orphan variety, as DNA testing has not found any relatives. Its alleged Roman origins cannot be substantiated. Often referred to as Petite Arvine, as opposed to Grosse Arvine which is probably one of its offsprings, Arvine is almost exclusively grown in Valais where it produces dry or sweet ("flétris") wines of international standard, with a citrus aroma and refreshing acidity. Traces of it can also be found in other Swiss cantons, as well as in Valle d'Aosta (I) and in France.

Some wineries that cultivate this grape

Germanier, Jean-René
Vétroz - Central Valais, Valais
  • Owner: Cave J.-R. Germanier SA
  • Winemaker: Germanier J.-R. & Besse Gilles
  • Visit: Yes
  • Wines displayed: 30
  • Other productions: Blend
Since Urbain Germanier gathered his first grape harvest in Balavaud in 1896, the Germanier family has been passionately devoted to its vineyard. Today Jean-René Germanier and his nephew Gilles Besse are the third and fourth generation to maintain this tradition. Their single aim is to produce top-quality wines that are an authentic reflection of …
  • 7
Maître de chais (Provins)
Sion - Central Valais, Valais
  • Owner: Coopérative
  • Winemaker: Carruzzo Damien
  • Visit: Yes
  • Wines displayed: 26
  • Other productions: Blend
In the 20s, the wine industry is in crisis. Vine growers decide to join forces and create an independent organisation to produce and sell their wine. Today Provins is the largest wine producer in Valais and Switzerland. The size of the company yet does not compromise quality. Indeed, Provins is also the most decorated Swiss cellar with its team …
Cornulus
Savièse - Central Valais, Valais
  • Owner: Reynard, Stéphane & Varone, Dany
  • Winemaker: Reynard, Stéphane & Varone, Dany
  • Visit: Yes
  • Wines displayed: 40
Two cousins, Stéphane Reynard and Dany Varone, run the Cornulus estate. They manage 35 acres (14 ha) spread over 250 terraced vineyards in the heart of Valais. These vineyards are uniquely situated in very steep and sunny locations, such as the great Clos of Corbassières on the slopes of Mount Orge near Sion. Forty wines are produced every year. …
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