Ski Wines

Whites, Reds, and… Rosés

It's clear that the plains of mountainous areas do not offer the best wine-growing terroirs. However, once you gain a bit of altitude in the first foothills of the valleys, you can find a true mosaic of terroirs planted with local grape varieties that allow the production of quality wines.

The production in these regions is largely dominated by white wines, but the range of red wines, and even rosés, should not be overlooked. The advantage of these wines is that they pair very well with local recipes, adding a refreshing touch that is appreciated for digesting these hearty dishes.

Jura and Savoie

Jura and Savoie produce ski wines in all three colors. Jura, with its Arbois appellation, is undoubtedly the most characteristic of these mountain wines.

Whites

The whites from both regions, for example, are great companions for cheese, but also for all dishes where cheese is the main ingredient:

• With a Reblochon, Beaufort, or Vacherin, prefer a Savoie appellation such as Roussette de Savoie or a Crépy.
• And with a raclette, an Arbois Blanc or a Crépy will pair perfectly.

Reds

The reds are best enjoyed with mountain charcuterie, grilled meats, or in sauces, and even with game.

Another advantage of these wines is their price: they often do not exceed €10.

The Pyrenees

While you can enjoy the nearby ski resorts, the vineyards are not strictly speaking producers of mountain wines. However, a winter stay is another opportunity to taste the great bottles of the region.

Moreover, to convince the skeptics, a very clever initiative called Juran’Gliss has been set up at the Gourette ski resort in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. It allows lucky skiers to discover the vineyards and participate in a free tasting and a wine fair at… altitude.mé à la cannelle fait partie des charmes des vacances d’hiver, il ne doit pas faire oublier la production viticole locale des régions montagneuses.