The Wine Reference🍷 SupportChasselas grape
Chasselas is a white grape known for apple, citrus, mineral. Its best-known homes are Switzerland.
Origin and history
One of the oldest known grapes, thought to originate around Lake Geneva in Switzerland, where it has been grown for many centuries.
Where it grows
Switzerland (Vaud: Lavaux, Dézaley, Yvorne; Valais as Fendant), Pouilly-sur-Loire, Alsace, Savoie (Crépy) and Germany's Baden (Markgräflerland).
Structure
Light to medium body, low acidity and moderate alcohol; dry and delicate, often with a light spritz.
Aromas, young and aged
Young: apple, pear, lemon, lime blossom and a mineral, stony note. With age: honey, toast, hazelnut and dried flowers.
Ageing
Most within 1–3 years; top Dézaley and Calamin can age for 10–20 years.
Also known as
Fendant (Valais), Gutedel (Germany), Perlan (Geneva).
Good to know
Its steep Lavaux terraces above Lake Geneva became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007; it is also a popular table grape.
Similar white grapes
Explore all grapes in the interactive guide
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