Nothing quite hits the same as a refreshing glass of wine to quench a day of adventure in the Alps. While the French Alps offer endless outdoor adventures, they also offer an exquisite variety of wines. In particular, that of the exceptional quality produced in the Savoie vineyards.
The Savoie landscapes are famed for their beauty and certainly don’t disappoint as an alpine holiday destination. Savoie vineyards offer an unforgettable experience often overlooked by visitors. Perfect for more leisurely days on your alpine holiday itinerary, vineyards in the Alps offer so much more than sampling the produce itself. From participating in workshops to guided walks through the vineyards or picnicking among the vines, the Savoie wine region presents the perfect pairing of wine, scenery and sunshine.
About the Savoie Wine Region
The Savoie wine region sits at the foot of the French Alps, set among spectacular mountain scenery and large lakes. Its diverse rocky terrain and limestone influence the unique and varied flavours, from Jacquère’s bright and crispy notes to the gamey depth of Mondeuse. Over recent years, Savoie has grown in recognition for producing the region’s core appellation, Vin de Savoie. It therefore makes for a unique experience on a lakes and mountains holiday.
Across 2,000 hectares, the region covers four separate communes, including Savoie, Haute-Savoie, Isère, and Ain. Each region is known for diverse terroirs, producing white wines and unique alpine blends. In Savoie, there are 23 grape varieties, with 5 white and 2 red grape varieties that stand out for their exceptional quality. The produce is characterful, refreshing, and perfect for summer, despite the grapes being smaller than those in other French vineyards.
Many of our French Alps summer resorts lie within easy reach of these vineyards, such as Megève, Chamonix, Val d’Isère, La Clusaz and St Martin de Belleville. So, whether you pick up a bottle to bring back to a top self-catered chalet or stock up on the way home, these French vineyards are an idyllic day trip addition to a lakes and mountains holiday.
Savoie Wine Route
Although not technically a singular route, the Savoie Wine Route crosses many picturesque villages and historic wine-producing areas, each retaining an individual allure and showcasing some of the best vineyards in the Alps. Through rugged mountain landscapes and green hills, many of the wineries en route are crafted by small, family-run estates in locations stretching from Aix-les-Bains to Chambéry. Each one offers more than just tasting the produce of Savoie Vineyards by also holding intimate tours and events (more on this later!). However, with vineyards sitting in dramatic settings, they bring the perfect blend of beauty and flavour.
Despite its modest size, the route boasts a surprising diversity of wines, shaped from mountainous landscapes and cooler climates. Across the Savoie Wine Region, there are three different appellations for wine lovers to discover. Each one of the three AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) classifications offers distinct styles and flavours:
AOC Savoie
This is the largest and most diverse appellation, producing the finest whites of the Savoie region. These are primarily found southeast of Chambéry and are best known for a delicate and refreshing taste. Examples include Apremont, Abymes, Chignin, Arbin, and Cruet.
AOC Roussette de Savoie
Consisting of floral aromas, with a touch of nuttiness and spice, these age-worthy whites are mainly made from the Altesse grape. Examples include Frangy, Monterminod, Marestel, and Monthoux.
AOC Seyssel
The only single-village appellation in Savoie, renowned (locally at least) for its Altesse and Molette grapes, which produce crisp and fine sparkling wines. Examples include Seyssel, Seyssel Mousseux and Seyssel Molette.
Best Grapes & Wines in Savoie
Now that you know Savoie Vineyards, let’s explore a few of their best French wines…
- Jacquère: Jacquère is the region’s most planted white grape, producing light-bodied, dry, and refreshingly crisp wines. Floral notes and high acidity give these wines their character, making them perfect apéritifs or to accompany fondue and seafood. Producers often bottle Jacquère wines under names like Apremont, Abymes, and Chignin.
- Altesse (Roussette): These French wines adopt a more complex, structured profile, ranging from light and elegant to a more full-bodied, velvety roundness. They feature citrus and floral herb notes, with subtle honey touches emerging as the wines mature. Often labelled as Roussette de Savoie, Altesse wines are typically found in areas like Chignin and Arbin.
- Gringet: Found particularly in the Haute-Savoie region, Gringet wines are a rare local variety native to the Arve Valley. These wines often have striking fresh, bright acidity and more complex aromatic profiles. For example, some offer citrus and floral notes, whilst others show a more bitter and unique taste.
More Than Just Vineyards
Vineyards in the Alps offer so much more than just tasting Savoy wine and popular French wines. Instead, they make the perfect place for a day trip for all ages. From gourmet experiences to scenic picnics, Savoie vineyards have so much to offer…
Picnic with an Independent Winegrower
Many vineyards offer picnic experiences to enjoy in between tastings to make the most of your scenic alpine surroundings. Just picture a basket of fresh alpine produce perfectly paired with a local Savoy wine, encircled by picturesque mountain views – pure bliss! These offer a perfect chance to enjoy local French wines and involve the little ones (without the drinking, of course!).
And if you fancy a spot of culture, why not join in Europe’s biggest picnic for the Pique-Nique chez les Vignerons Indépendants? The ‘Independent Winegrowers’ Picnic, over the Pentecost weekend, gives visitors a fantastic chance to meet with independent winemakers. During this weekend, growers will open the doors of their French vineyard, sharing knowledge and their passion for wine. Perfect for all the family, bring your own picnic and learn more about the wines from Savoie.
Gourmet Wine Tours
The Savoie wine route isn’t solely about the liquid-based delicacies available. With an array of Michelin-accredited restaurants in the Savoie region, gourmet tours present a fantastic excuse to indulge among a spectacular choice of fine dining options too. Or, tuck into mountain favourites, such as tartiflette and fondues. Either way, Savoy wines provide the perfect accompaniment to delectable Alpine dishes.
Wine Events
Falling just outside the summer events calendar, a unique wine tourism event, Vignobles en Scène, in the Northern Rhône Valley takes place. Happening in October, this event is a celebration of winemaking, bringing together local wineries, vineyards, and wine enthusiasts. With wine tastings, vineyard tours, and unique opportunities to meet winemakers, it’s certain to be an unforgettable experience! Many of our chalets extend their summer season to experience autumn in the Alps, aligning perfectly with wine harvest!
Wine and mountains make a perfect match. This summer, explore Savoie vineyards, enjoy French wines, and experience the best of the Alps. There’s no place better to base your stay than in one of our luxury summer chalets! With plenty of choices in Val d’Isère, Morzine, La Clusaz, and Chamonix, you’ll be within easy reach of the famous French wine region. For more information, give us a call or send us an email.
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