Three fine Swiss wines from Lavaux in the Vaud by Domaine du Daley
Located amid the terraced vineyards of Lavaux overlooking Lake Geneva, Domaine du Daley affords incredible views – and the wines, white and red, are pretty good too
Swiss cuisine is hard to describe, being partially influenced by its neighbours – Germany, France and northern Italy. The Swiss dishes that come immediately to mind are cheese fondue, rösti and raclette. These are hearty dishes appropriate for the country’s alpine conditions.
When it comes to wine, it would be reasonable to assume that Swiss varieties accompanying the rich, cheesy and meat-based fare would be heavy and robust. The opposite, in fact, is true. Modern Swiss wines have evolved in quality and style. Fresh, vibrant whites replete with primary fruit, and elegant, lighter-bodied reds are hallmarks of the Vaud canton.
French-speaking Vaud is in the southwest of the country, neighbouring France. Located on the northern shore of Lake Geneva, it is Switzerland’s second largest wine region, producing a quarter of the country’s wines.
Vaud’s climate is heavily influenced by its proximity to water. The lake protects the vines against spring frost and cools summertime temperatures. The mirror effect of the lake reflects sunlight onto the south-facing vineyards and improves grape ripening. Vaud has a reputation for producing high-quality wines and as one of the most beautiful vineyard regions in the world.