A classic red grape variety transplanted from the Côtes-du-Rhône area, Syrah is still somewhat of a rarity here and is grown mainly in Valais and on well-exposed slopes. It produces a spicy, deeply colored, elegant tannic wine that ages well. Some Swiss Syrah wines have been winning international awards for in recent years.
Goron de Bovernier is a red grape, which according to José Vouillamoz is probably a natural hybrid of Cornalin du Valais and an unknown variety. The grape gets its name from the municipality of Bovernier, in Valais. Small quantities are still found in lower Valais.
A new variety, Diolinoir was developed in 1970 at Pully (Vaud). When grown in favorable locations in Valais, it gives a fine, robust wine, rich in color and with good tannin content. It is a cross between Diolly and Pinot Noir.
A classic international variety, Cabernet Sauvignon is marginally cultivated in Geneva, Vaud, Valais, and Ticino. With changing climate there are growers, at least in Zurich, planting Cabernet Sauvignon. Besides being vinified as a varietal, it is blended with other Bordeaux grape varieties, or with old Valais varieties.
An alpine red variety that is a specialty in Valais, this vine is no relation to the similarly named Humagne blanche.
Humagne Rouge is a hardy, late ripening grape whose planted surface has increased largely during the last 20 years. It produces fine wine, low in tannin with a slightly wild character that is ideal with game dishes.
A new variety, developed in 1970 at Pully (Vaud), Gamaret is enjoying a growing success with producers and consumers alike. It produces a wine that is richly colored and well-structured with sometimes-spicy notes that ages well.
Gamaret is a cross between Gamay and Reichensteiner (a white grape.)
