Heida/Païen, “Les Bernunes”, Valais

This version of the famous Savagnin (the grape in the Jura responsible for the great Château Chalon and the full range of Vin Jaunes) does not share the oxidative notes of its cousin from the Jura. Rather, it is a dry wine with tantalizing aromas that capture the smell of the mountain herbs, the pine forest and the crisp Alpine air. A shy-bearing vine that matures late, the Heida-Paien requires a patient and talented vigneron to display its complex character. The “Les Bernunes” vineyard is recognized for its capacity to produce this grape variety at its best.