While Chasselas was originally believed to have originated from Chasselas, France, recent DNA analysis has proven that it actually hails from the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland. Also known as Fendant in Switzerland, its name means “splitting” because the grape splits open instead of being crushed when placed between two fingers. Since Chasselas adapts to various soils and climates, it can be found in a range of places like France, Germany, Austria, and Chile. Typically delivering light and playful notes of apple blossom, pear, citrus, smoke, and minerality, Chasselas pairs fantastically with cheese fondue, trout, and savory pastries.

Domaine Kientzler Alsace ‘La Soif’ 2021

La Soif is a mouthwatering, thirst-quenching — literally, the word soif means “the thirst” in French — sipper that is at once a gorgeous aperitif and a clutch partner for everything from cheese to roast chicken. A dry, full-bodied blend of Chasselas, Riesling, Muscat and Auxerrois, the palate has the right balance of fruit and liveliness, which gives a nice impression of freshness. On the nose, fine aromas of fleshy pear, white peach, and delicate crushed flowers make the wine especially hard to resist.

Maison Viallet Savoie Blanc 2023

A blend of Jacquere, Chasselas, Chardonnay, and Altesse, this white wine is aged in stainless steel tanks for 6-12 months. Sustainably farmed, this wine has a discreet, smoky bouquet with preserved aromas that evolve into honeyed notes. On the palate, the wine is light and straightforward with a saline minerality. Enjoy alongside fondue, arctic char, and vegetarian dishes.

Pierre Elie Carron ‘Rodoz’ Fendant 2022

In the commune of Fully, in the Swiss Valais, the grape Chasselas is known as Fendant. At its best, it produces delicately nuanced wintry whites like this entry from award-winning winemaker Pierre-Elie Carron. A perfect partner for fondue and light white meats, the wine offers notes of peach blossom and lemon-zest. Light and refreshing on the palate, with a slight roundness, this wine also works beautifully as an apertif.

Grape Photo Credit: Ursula Brühl, Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI), Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Grapevine Breeding Geilweilerhof - 76833 Siebeldingen, GERMANY