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Wine & Oenology The soul of the Alps in a glass of wine Chambéry Mountains

Produced from century-old vines, Savoie wines reveal treasures in white – jacquère, altesse, roussanne – and red – mondeuse, persan, pinot gris. These are wines with a local accent, proudly grown between Chambéry Montagnes and Cœur de Savoie. To be enjoyed in moderation, but always with passion.

Savoie wines : a thousand-year-old heritage to savour

Although little known to the general public, Savoie hasone of the oldest wine-growing traditions in France. Vines have been growing here for over 2,600 years! From the Middle Ages onwards, monks played a key role, experimenting, innovating and laying the foundations for a form of viticulture that became essential to the Duchy of Savoie.

From the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries, vines spread from the valleys to altitudes of over 1,000 metres, sculpting the landscape like a plant signature.

In 1860, when Savoie became part of France, the balance was upset: local wines had to compete with those from the south. Seventeen years later, phylloxera struck… threatening to wipe out an entire part of Savoie’s wine-growing heritage.

But Savoyard vines, like their land, have character. After the war, it was reborn. Thanks to modernised techniques, the energy of its winegrowers, and the impetus of Alpine tourism, quality was on the rise. In 1973, this revival was crowned by the award of theAOC “Vins de Savoie” label.

Today, the vineyards concentrate on the most favourable soils to guarantee expressive vintages that are faithful to the terroir. At the Maison de la Vigne et du Vin, professionals and enthusiasts work together to promote this know-how.

Savoie wines are more than a history: they are a living source of pride. To be discovered and shared… in moderation, of course!

Grape varieties and denominations geographical Savoie

Savoie wines owe their distinctive character to their grape varieties, which are particularly well adapted to the climate and limestone subsoil.

The second most important agricultural activity in Savoie after cheese production, Savoie winegrowing boasts 25 grape varieties, producing 21 distinctive geographical denominations (formerly known as crus).

Grape varieties grown in Chambéry Montagnes and Cœur de Savoie
  • White grape varieties
    • Jacquère: typically Savoyard, this is the most widespread grape variety, occupying 50% of Savoyard vineyards. Characteristics: vigorous vine, medium-sized bunches, uneven spherical berries. It produces pale-coloured, fresh wines with a slight sparkle and mineral and white flower notes. Geographical indications: Abymes, Apremont, Chignin, Cruet, Jongieux, Montmélian and Saint Jeoire Prieuré.
    • Altesse: Typically Savoyard, this variety accounts for 10% of the vineyard, but is growing. Characteristics: vigorous vine, small bunches, small ellipsoidal berries. It is used to make complex, floral and fruity wines, combining richness and freshness. Geographical indications: Monterminod.
    • Roussanne: known in Savoie as Bergeron, it is only planted in the communes of Chignin, Francin and Montmélian and accounts for just 4% of the vineyard. Characteristics: vigorous vine, medium-sized bunches, medium-sized spherical berries. It produces Chignin-Bergeron (a single variety), a full-bodied wine with powerful aromas of ripe fruit (apricot, quince) and hints of honey.
  • Red grape varieties
    • Mondeuse: typically Savoyard, this grape variety is on the increase and covers 12% of the vineyard. Characteristics: vigorous vine, fairly large bunches, uneven spherical berries. It produces colourful, tannic wines with aromas of spices, white pepper and black fruit (blackcurrant). Geographical appellations: Arbin and Saint Jean de la Porte.
    • Persan: Typically Savoyard, this grape variety originated in Maurienne (Savoie) and is gradually being rehabilitated in the Combe de Savoie. Characteristics: vigorous vine, medium-sized bunches, small, ovoid grapes. It produces well-structured wines with a unique aromatic character.
    • Pinot gris: called Malvoisie in Savoie, it covers around fifty hectares. Characteristics: vigorous vine, cylindrical bunches, small, tightly packed grapes.

Have you ever thought about combining wine and chocolate?

When the aromas of chocolate meet the subtle notes of Savoie wines, a whole palette of sensations is awakened. An unexpected tasting, generous and full of character, to be savoured slowly… Discover the gourmet alchemy between two treasures, fused in the same pleasure. To your taste buds!

Coulisses Accord Chocolat Vin V1 1
Coulisses   Accord Chocolat Vin V1 1
Coulisses Accord Chocolat Vin V1 1

The label Vignobles & Découvertes

Since 2011, the Cœur de Savoie – Chambéry Montagnes region has been awarded the Vignobles & Découvertes label, a national accolade that promotes exceptional wine-producing destinations. Nearly 100 service providers invite you to experience wine in a different way: cellar visits, tastings, accommodation, gourmet dining, events… All are committed to offering a high-quality welcome and an authentic, human experience. A great way to explore the landscapes and flavours of Savoie, in a respectful and friendly way.

Savour Savoie differently

Fancy a trip to the heart of the vineyards? Here, wine isn’t just drunk, it’s experienced. Working alongside a passionate oenologist, learn to recognise the aromas, grape varieties and subtleties of Savoie wines.

Then push open the doors of the wineries and let the winegrowers of Chambéry Montagnes tell you all about their vineyards, their work and their pride.

Finally, stop in at a wine merchant who loves the terroir: he’ll be able to guide you towards the perfect bottle, the one that tells a story… and prolongs the pleasure.

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