📍 Chablais

Chablais is a wine area in Switzerland, in the Rhône valley above Lake Geneva. It lies mostly in the canton of Vaud, with a part in Valais. It is a protected designation of origin (PDO). The main grape is the white Chasselas, with some Pinot Noir.

The area includes the communes of Aigle, Yvorne, Ollon, Bex and Villeneuve. The slopes face the sun and are sheltered by mountains, while the lake softens the climate. Chasselas wines are light, fresh and mineral, and go well with fish and cheese.

Chablais is linked to other Vaud areas, such as Lavaux. Most of these wines are drunk by the Swiss themselves, and few are exported. For travellers, tasting in the cellars is a good way to meet them. Many Chablais wines are drunk locally in Switzerland itself. Tastings can be arranged in local cellars, which also welcome visitors.