Eyholzer Roter

The Eyholzer Roter grape, also known as Hibou, is grown around Visp and in the village of Eyholz just to the west of Visp.

This ancient variety has also been grown in Savoie in France and and in northern Italy.

The traditional method of growing the grape in Valais is to train it on pergolas. This wine is a medium red with a nose of mountain violet and raspberry.

Soft and fruity on the palate, it is best served slightly chilled as one would a young Beaujolais, with ham, quiches, cold meats and cheeses (Schabziger if you can get it).

If you are a Pinot Noir fan then this is a must-try wine for you.

Ben says of the 2011 (October 2018): This wine has developed a very strong nose which has a great deal of florality (violets in particular) as well as a delicious greeness reminicient of fruit stalks and brambles. There is also a little raspberry which becomes more pronounced in the mouth. It is quite a light wine but packs quite a punch regardless.