Wine know-how

Expand your knowledge of Swiss wines: find out what characterises sustainable viticulture, how different wines are produced and what regional wine specialities Switzerland has to offer.

Brochures on Swiss wine

Articles to deepen your knowledge of wine

Table of contents

[]

Dive into the fascinating world of Swiss wines in our "Wine knowledge" section. Whether you're a curious amateur or a true wine enthusiast, discover the history, wine production and unique grape varieties of our wine-producing regions.

Learn about the different winemaking methods for white, red, rosé and sparkling wine. Find out what labels and medals mean. Improve your tasting techniques and your knowledge of Switzerland's regional wine specialities.

If you'd like to learn more about wine, you'll find a range of wine-related training courses and informative articles that will take you step by step through the learning process. The secrets of food and wine pairing, the specific characteristics of indigenous grape varieties and the current challenges of sustainable viticulture in Switzerland are just some of the subjects you can learn more about in the wine knowledge section.

Development of the vine throughout the year

Vines pursue a fascinating cycle over the course of a year, going from a dormant phase in winter to an abundant harvest in autumn. Each phase plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality of the grapes and thus the wine made from them.

Dormant phase (December–February)

The vine remains dormant during this time, resting and relying on internal reserves for its survival. Growers prune their vines now, to control growth and ensure the quality of the coming harvest.

Budding (March–April)

The vine’s buds begin to swell as temperatures rise, before they finally break open. The first leaves and shoots appear as the plant calls up nutrients from its roots.

Leaf and shoot growth (April–May)

The vine develops strong shoots and dense green leaves in order to carry out photosynthesis. At the same time, small flower clusters form, which later become grapes.

Flowering (May–June)

The plant flowers discreetly; its small and seemingly insignificant flowers are in fact essential. If the weather is warm and dry, the plant pollinates efficiently. Pollination is decisive for subsequent fruit set and thus the harvest yield.

Fruit set (June–July)

The pollinated flowers develop into tiny green berries. During this stage, the vine puts all its energy into the growth of the grapes.

Ripening and colour change (July–August)

The grapes continue to grow and begin to change colour, called the veraison. Depending on the variety, they change from green to purply-red for red grapes and from green to gold for white grapes. During this time, the sugar content increases while the acidity level gradually drops.

Ripening period (August–September)

The few weeks just before the harvest are crucial. This is when the grapes develop their full aromas and find the ideal balance between sugar and acidity. The winemaker regularly checks the degree of grape ripeness to determine the ideal time for harvesting.

Harvest (September–October)

The grapes are harvested, whether by hand or machine, according to the type of wine and quality desired. Once they are picked, the grapes are delivered immediately to the cellar to begin the vinification process.

Preparing for winter (October–November)

The leaves change colour before falling, signifying the vine’s preparation for its dormant winter period. The plant transfers its nutrients down to the roots, storing there the energy required for the following year’s cycle.

Wine courses

Brochures on Swiss wine

The Swiss Wine brochures provide you with more information about viticulture in Switzerland.

Brochure "Wine regions and wines Switzerland"

Brochure "Swiss vineyards"

Articles to deepen your knowledge of wine

When the vines awaken from hibernation: Spring in the Swiss vineyards

Spring is a time of new beginnings – not only for the vines, but also for the winegrowers, who now lay the foundation for a successful vintage.

Wednesday 26 Mar 2025

Wine know-how

175 years of Müller-Thurgau: The world-famous legacy of the Swiss vine breeder

Hermann Müller-Thurgau not only gave his name to one of the most well-known grape varieties in the world, but he was also a visionary scientist. His work continues to shape viticulture to this day.

Wednesday 12 Mar 2025

Wine know-how

White, rosé or red? This is how the different types of wine are made

The colour of a wine is not only determined by the grape, but above all by the way it is processed. Whether white wine, rosé, red wine or orange wine – each production method ensures unique flavours.

Monday 03 Mar 2025

Wine know-how

See more news