Updated:2023/10/14
The picturesque Lavaux district on the north shore of Lake Geneva
Switzerland has many lakes, but Lake Geneva is probably the most famous one. It is said to be the second-largest lake in Central Europe. It spreads out in a crescent shape on the east side of Geneva, one of Switzerland’s two major gateways, and faces two countries: Switzerland on the north and France on the south.
The Lavaux district, which stretches out in the Switzerland part, is one of Switzerland’s most famous wine-growing regions, and has been growing grapes since Roman times. The vineyards, which look like long, narrow terraces and are dotted with small villages, are so beautiful that, along with its traditional wine-making history, it has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the name “Lavaux Vineyards”.
The Lavaux Wine Train (Lavaux Express) takes you through the vineyards
The Lavaux Express is the perfect way to tour the Lavaux area. There are several routes, but I tried one from Cully, a station on the lake shore about 10 minutes from Lausanne.
The Lavaux Express is a sightseeing vehicle often seen at tourist destinations in Europe and the United States, with the top half of a trolley train being released and running on the road. The speed is about that of a bicycle, and it slowly climbs the narrow path through the wine fields. As it gradually rises in altitude, vineyards lined with hedges spread out on both sides of the road, and you can see the beautiful scenery of Lake Geneva below and the mountains of France on the opposite shore.
Swiss people are very proud of this area and often ask, “Do you know why the wine produced here is so delicious?” And explain, “That’s because the grapes here enjoy three benefits: heat from the sun, radiant heat from the heated stone walls, and reflection from Lake Geneva. Thanks to this, delicious grapes grow.” Indeed, Lake Geneva sparkled and reflected the sun, warming the vineyards.
The taste of wine differs depending on the village
Going through the Corniche road and arriving at the village of Puidoux, there was a spot where I could taste several types of wine. Famous wines around here include Epesses, Dezalay, and St. Saphorin. Although each village is less than 10 minutes away by car, the taste of each wine varies depending on the terrain. The wines of St. Saphorin, a village with a restaurant that Charlie Chaplin frequently visited, have a fruity taste. On the other hand, the one from Dezalay has mineral notes, and that of Epesses has fruity unique tastes.
60% of the wine produced in this region (Canton Vaud) is made from the rare white grape variety Chassler. However, Swiss people love this wine so much that they mostly consume it in their own country. Very few products are exported, so if you come across one or if you go on a trip to Switzerland, you should try this wine.
