The colour is medium gold. On the nose notes of apple, apricot, honey and chamomile. In the mouth very fresh. It stimulates salivation and overall gives a silky sensation. The aftertaste is very dry and not very tasty, but it last for a fairly long time.
This unique wine is produced by Chanton, a winery at the center of rare grape preservation in Valais.
It is made with an almost extinct ancient Swiss variety, called Plantscher. A grape variety also known as Blanchier, Gros Bourgogne or Bordeaux Blanc, although it doesn’t have anything to do with either Bourgogne or Bordeaux.
Plantscher is an offspring of the Hungarian grape Furmint. The other parent is unknown. It is considered native to Switzerland, where it is mentioned in documents already in 1586. It doesn’t exist anywhere else.
Even in Switzerland, Plantscher only known presence is in the vineyards of Chanton Kellerei, which is a safe house for several other at-risk varieties as well. Less than one hectare is cultivated. This is the only varietal Plantscher produced in the world. Definitely a rarity.
I bought this bottle for 26 CHF directly at the winery in Visp.
Country: Switzerland
Region: Valais
Grapes: Plantscher
Type: White
Vintage: 2016
Producer: Chanton
Price range: Medium (15-30 US$)
Pascal’s Enjoyment Index: 3/5