Ep 251 - Petit Arvine & the Hidden Grapes of Valais: DNA Discoveries and World-Class Swiss Syrah with José Vouillamoz

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Recorded02 Mar 2026

Publisherfeed.podbean.com ↗

Handlerec:16289559

Show notes

In this episode, Janina travels to Switzerland’s Valais – a dramatic Alpine region that is home to one of the highest concentrations of indigenous grape varieties in the world. She is joined by José Vouillamoz, leading authority on grape origins and DNA profiling, co-author of Wine Grapes, and author of Swiss Grapes, to explore Valais’ ancient varieties, genetic mysteries, heroic viticulture and why this small region quietly produces some of the world’s best Syrah. From Petit Arvine and Amigne to Cornalin, Humagne Rouge and age-worthy Chasselas (Fendant), this is a fascinating deep dive into Swiss wine history, science and flavour. 02:59 The coolest fact about Valais - the world’s smallest vineyard owned by the Dalai Lama. 05:21 Janina links back to her episode (Ep 75) on the most unique vineyards in the world. 05:59 Why Valais is genetically unique - indigenous grapes found nowhere else. 07:22 Is Valais the most concentrated region for native grape varieties? 10:01 The Alpine landscape - terraces, dry stone walls and heroic viticulture. 12:22 Where to begin with indigenous grapes - Petit Arvine explained. 14:02 Angelo Gaja’s failed attempt to plant Arvine in Piemonte. 15:47 Arvine vs Petit Arvine – understanding the naming confusion. 16:51 How producers label Arvine today - Petit Arvine or simply Arvine? 17:20 The rare Gross Arvine - what it is and why it almost disappeared. 19:14 What does Gross Arvine taste like? 19:58 Amigne - Valais’ misunderstood chameleon grape. 21:15 The bee-label system that indicates sweetness levels in Amigne wines. 22:24 Heida (Savagnin/Païen/Traminer) - is it indigenous to Valais? 24:07 Can you identify Valais Heida in a blind tasting? 26:21 Other white grapes worth seeking out - Humagne Blanc and Rèze. 28:57 Chasselas (Fendant) - why it plays such an important role in Valais. 31:19 The ageing mystery - how low-acid Chasselas can evolve for decades. 33:10 Humagne Blanc vs Humagne Rouge - is there a genetic connection? 36:04 Cornalin (Rouge du Pays) - why this red is worth discovering. 38:28 Humagne Rouge - flavour profile and distinctive character. 39:35 Syrah in Valais - why this may be its northern quality limit. 45:26 If you try only one grape from Valais - which should it be? 46:15 Must-visit spots - Zermatt, the Matterhorn, Aletsch Glacier and Visperterminen vineyards. 49:26 The food to try - authentic Swiss raclette and ideal wine pairings. 51:23 José’s book Swiss Grapes and the upcoming updated edition. Follow José Vouillamoz on Instagram for more insights into Swiss wine, grape genetics and fascinating discoveries from the world of viticulture. 📩 Questions or feedback? [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @eatsleep_winerepeat 🎥 YouTube: Eat Sleep Wine Repeat 🌐 Website: www.eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk Cheers to you 🥂 THE EAT SLEEP WINE REPEAT PODCAST Featured in Decanter Magazine and Radio Times, and ranked among the Top UK Wine Podcasts by Feedspot. RECOGNITION: – Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025) – Shortlisted, IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine Communication (2025) – Ranked #18 in 2024 and #22 in 2025 on Drinks Retailing’s Most Influential People in Drinks list

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