Valais wines: pure sunshine

Switzerland's largest winegrowing region is also its most varied: more than 50 grape varieties thrive on the sunny slopes above the Rhone. Among them are ancient names such as Petite Arvine, Heida, Lafnetscha, Cornalin and Humagne rouge. But the Valais is also known for the contemporary flair of its innovative winemakers – not least its pioneering women. Stars include Madeleine Gay, Winegrower of the Year 2008, and Marie-Thérèse Chappaz in Fully, who follows biodynamic principles and is famous for her sweet wines.