Gamaret red wine from Valais: a Swiss grape variety with character
Origin and development of the Gamaret grape variety
The Swiss Gamaret grape variety was created in 1970 by crossing Gamay and Reichensteiner at the Federal Research Station for Plant Production in Pully, in the canton of Vaud. Developed by André Jaquinet and Dominique Maigre, the aim of this new variety was to create a rot-resistant and early-ripening grape that is suitable for both blends and single-varietal wines. Gamaret has been officially registered in the Swiss variety list since 1991 and has since become one of the most promising red grape varieties in the country.
Characteristics of the Gamaret grape variety
Gamaret is characterised by its intense colour with violet reflections and its concentrated bouquet. The grapes are loose, which gives the grape variety a high resistance to Botrytis cinerea (grey mould rot). The berries have a thick skin, which provides strong tannins and makes the wine particularly suitable for ageing. Gamaret is an early-ripening variety that is ideally suited to the climatic conditions of the Valais and consistently produces high-quality wines.
Aromas and flavour profile
On the nose, Gamaret has an intense bouquet of dark berries such as blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by subtle toasted notes and hints of spice. On the palate, it is powerful and well-structured, with well-integrated tannins and a pleasant balance between fruit and spice. This grape variety is convincing both as a soloist and in blends with other red wines such as Pinot Noir or Merlot.
The maturation of Gamaret
Maturing in oak barrels enhances the aromas and gives the wine additional complexity. The combination of delicate fruit, spicy notes and a velvety texture makes Gamaret an ideal companion for dark meat dishes such as venison or beef. With a moderate alcohol content of 13–14%, it develops its full elegance at a serving temperature of 16–18 °C.
Cultivation and importance in Switzerland
The Gamaret grape variety is cultivated in Switzerland, particularly in the Valais, Canton Vaud and Geneva, on around 434 hectares – and the trend is rising. Thanks to its resistance to diseases and pests, it is particularly suitable for sustainable viticulture. Plots with well-ventilated locations and calcareous soils provide optimal conditions for the vines to develop their full potential.
Gamaret: a highlight in blends
Gamaret is known for its ability to blend harmoniously with other grape varieties. It brings a strong structure and depth to cuvées, especially when combined with Pinot Noir or Gamay. Its dense colour and strong tannins make it an important component of many high-quality red wines.
Gamaret: moments of pleasure
Thanks to its intense fruit and structure, Gamaret is a versatile wine that is suitable for many occasions. It goes extremely well with game dishes, beef and spicy foods. It also reaches its full potential with mature cheese. As a soloist or as part of a festive meal, Gamaret enriches every table with its elegance and expressiveness.
Challenges and the future
The breeding of Gamaret has shown how important the development of new grape varieties is for Swiss viticulture. The challenge is to maintain consistently high wine quality while taking account of climate change. Thanks to its robustness and adaptability, Gamaret will continue to play an important role in Valais viticulture in the future.
A red wine with character
Whether as a soloist or in a sophisticated blend, Gamaret is known for powerful, structured red wines with a unique aroma profile. Its origin and characteristics make it one of the most promising grape varieties in Switzerland.