Everything About Chasselas Grape
"sha-suh-LAH" 
Chasselas Description
Origin: Lake Geneva region, Switzerland
History: Chasselas is a very old grape variety originating in the Lake Geneva region, where it was already known as Fendant in the 17th century. It is emblematic of French-speaking Switzerland and has been cultivated for centuries. In Switzerland, it is often used to produce dry white wines.
Appearance: Medium-sized, thin-skinned, yellow-green berries growing in compact clusters.
Growing Traits: Chasselas is an early-ripening variety that thrives in cool climates, particularly suited to the alpine slopes of Switzerland. It can be a vigorous and overproductive vine if not properly controlled, which has perhaps contributed to its poor reputation outside Switzerland. However, at lower yields, it can make expressive, age-worthy wines.
Food Pairing Chasselas's light body, crisp acidity, and subtle fruit flavors make it an excellent match for traditional Swiss dishes such as raclette and fondue. Its refreshing profile also pairs well with freshwater fish, light salads, and mild cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Light-bodied with a delicate and subtle profile, offering freshness and minerality. Typically dry, with minimal residual sugar, though some off-dry styles exist, highlighting its natural fruitiness. Low tannin levels, characteristic of white wines, contributing to its smooth and clean profile. Medium to high acidity, providing vibrancy and crispness, enhancing its food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11.5% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Red Apple 
Apple Blossom 
Melon 
Mint 
Smoke Chasselas wines are characterized by delicate flavors of red apple and melon, complemented by floral notes of apple blossom and a hint of mint. Subtle smoky nuances add complexity, all balanced by medium to high acidity, leading to a crisp and refreshing finish.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/switzerland.png)
Switzerland
•Vaud
•Valais
•Geneva
![[object Object] Region](/regions/france.png)
France
•Alsace
•Loire
•Savoie
![[object Object] Region](/regions/germany.png)
Germany
•Baden
•Saxony
Notable Wines and Producers
Dézaley Grand Cru
•Domaine Louis Bovard
•Domaine Bovy
Fendant du Valais
•Provins Valais
•Jean-René Germanier
Perlan de Genève
•Domaine des Balisiers
•Les Hutins
Chasselas FAQ
Lake Geneva region, Switzerland
Chasselas has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Chasselas is Moderate to Light bodied.
Chasselas has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Chasselas is Dry.
Lake Geneva region, Switzerland
Chasselas is grown in Switzerland (Vaud, Valais, Geneva)France (Alsace, Loire, Savoie)Germany (Baden, Saxony).
Chasselas wines are characterized by delicate flavors of red apple and melon, complemented by floral notes of apple blossom and a hint of mint. Subtle smoky nuances add complexity, all balanced by medium to high acidity, leading to a crisp and refreshing finish.
Chasselas's light body, crisp acidity, and subtle fruit flavors make it an excellent match for traditional Swiss dishes such as raclette and fondue. Its refreshing profile also pairs well with freshwater fish, light salads, and mild cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chasselas wines are characterized by delicate flavors of red apple and melon, complemented by floral notes of apple blossom and a hint of mint. Subtle smoky nuances add complexity, all balanced by medium to high acidity, leading to a crisp and refreshing finish.