The “Sélection Valais” explained by Matthieu Vergère
In collaboration with Valaisan vine growers and the federal research station Agroscope, the aim of “Sélection Valais” is to preserve the genetic heritage of indigenous and traditional grape varieties, such as Arvine, Cornalin, and Humagne Rouge. The Sélection Valais brand is a protected brand.
Sélection Valais is a living plant library covering 3 hectares, the work of an entire generation. Its purpose is to protect our diversity of Valaisan grape varieties.
My predecessors traveled throughout Valais, and we carried out a massal selection*, meaning we selected the best stocks of each grape variety. Each type has passed ELISA tests.
Therefore, this “Sélection Valais” library exclusively contains plants that are sanitary and visually appealing in terms of leaves, fruit, consistency, clusters, etc.
Not to mention, the Petite Arvine from Marie-Thérèse Chappat, which received a score of 100 from the Robert Parker Wine Advocate, comes from a Sélection Valais.
The plot for this Humagne Rouge covers 6,000 m², featuring exceptional terroir, exclusively from the Sélection Valais, with superior wine and complete traceability.
Matthieu Vergère, horticulturist and director of Multiplants in Conthey
The Humagne Rouge “LES GRANDS ORS” from Domaine de Tsampi comes from the “Sélection Valais” label.
My predecessors traveled throughout Valais, and we carried out a massal selection*, meaning we selected the best stocks of each grape variety. Each type has passed ELISA tests.
What is a massal selection?
When replanting a plot or replacing a dead vine, winegrowers who care about the quality and uniqueness of their vineyard use a massal selection of their young vines.
This means that instead of buying a vine, they choose their grafts by cutting a shoot from their finest vines.
What is the difference between a clone and massal selection?
A clone is an individual reproduced infinitely, so the wine will be homogeneous. Massal selection represents several individuals brought together in the same bottle, resulting in a wine that is much richer and more complex.
What does the ELISA test consist of?
ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay) is an immuno-enzymatic technique used for the detection of pathogens that carry antigens.
In total, nearly 1,400 individuals of 17 different grape varieties currently make up this conservatory, where Valaisan winegrowers find the plants suited to their needs and expectations.