Adapted from Ellen’s Garden World, published 1 October 2014 The grape harvest has begun in Switzerland, but many of the best growers are holding off for a few more days. As the author of the first book in English on Swiss wines in 20 years (Vineglorious! Switzerland’s Wondrous World of Wines), I’m out in the […]
Wineries
Down below, preparing for the harvest
At dawn Sunday, it looked like this, the mist hanging over the vineyards of Sierre, Miège, Salgesch and beyond, in canton Valais. Quiet vineyards, but as of today in full swing with the harvest (although they began last week).
When “corked” is a great taste
Baker-pastry makers in canton Vaud have given the word “corked” a good name, thanks to a local specialty invented 65 years ago, the Bouchon Vaudois. If you haven’t yet had one, look for them at the 24 confiséries that have the right to make them under strict guidelines issued by their cantonal professional organization. During […]
Weekend weather: perfect for tasting food, wine
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – A perfect weekend for wandering in and out of the many food and wine events throughout the country: 18-28 September is Switzerland’s Semaine du goût (La settimana del gusto, Die Genussswoche) 2014. You’ll find an explanation and list of recommendations on Ellen’s Wine World, where you can also read about concerns over […]
Suzukii strikes fear at Swiss wineries
Don’t make forecasts about the 2104 harvest just yet! Two months ago a wine producer from canton Valais suddenly turned to me at a crowded dinner where the conversation had been fairly lighthearted. He frowned and said, “we’re worried about Suzukii, not the car, but the new bug.” I gave him a blank look, so […]