Rèze

Description

An alpine grape variety par excellence, once widespread throughout the Alps, now a rarity exclusive to Valais.

General and History

Rèze, along with Humagne, is one of the oldest grape varieties in Switzerland, mentioned in 1313 in Valais in a collection of parchments called the "Anniviers Register," which required a payment in ripe Humagne and Regy grapes. Rèze was once one of the most widespread grape varieties in Valais before being supplanted by Chasselas (or Fendant) and other easier-to-grow and more productive varieties imported towards the end of the 19th century.

Until recently, Rèze was known only in Valais, but in 2008 the author was alerted by the Grisard brothers from Fréterive in Savoy, who wanted to identify an unknown grape variety in the Maurienne Valley, nicknamed Blanc de Maurienne or Blanc de l'Évêque (Bishop's White), because its wine was served during episcopal visits. He was able to determine that it was indeed Rèze! Following this genetic discovery, a survey of the region led to the discovery of about ten old Rèze vines in Savoy, some of which have sadly since disappeared. Around the same time, Gaël Delorme had also discovered some in the French Jura. The paternity test allowed the author to identify six natural offspring of the Rèze: Diolle and Grosse Arvine in Valais, Poulsard Noir in the French Jura, Cascarolo Bianco in Piedmont (Italy), and Groppello di Revò and Nosiola in Trentino (Italy). The Rèze was therefore once widespread across a large part of the Alpine arc, before its area dwindled dramatically.

Suitability

Rèze wines have aromas of gooseberry, green apple, and elderflower, and are characterized by lively acidity, a resinous flavor that develops with age, and a light structure. Until the end of the 19th century, Rèze was one of the most widespread grape varieties in Valais. Today, Rèze is a rarity, vinified by only a few passionate winemakers.

Literature

·Vouillamoz, J. (2017). Cépages suisses, histoires et origines. Ed. Favre