Valais is Switzerland’s leading wine-producing canton. With around 5,000 hectares of vineyards, it tops the rankings for Switzerland’s biggest wine-growing region by some margin. The region isn’t just way out ahead in terms of the amount of wine produced, but also leads the way when it comes to sustainability. Valais is adopting an ambitious approach towards winemaking based on a type of viniculture and production that respects people, the environment and cultural heritage.

How everything’s being optimised.

Put simply, this means using cultivation methods that will also enable future generations to make wines of outstanding quality. For instance, Mounir uses humus, which comes from his own pilot worm composting system, and avoids  mineral fertilisers completely. A sustainable approach is needed in other areas too. The ‘Cave du Rhodan’ has installed photovoltaic systems to achieve energy self-sufficiency. As winemaking requires water in some places, Mounir is also deploying a highly efficient drip irrigation system. Grazing sheep help to maintain healthy vineyards by eating weeds and thinning the foliage – while fertilising the land at the same time.

The vineyard has also started using electric-powered vehicles, such as an electric caterpillar and mower. Electric vehicles are now also being used to transport employees. Mounir explained: “Sustainability will only have an impact if we’re totally committed to it. Organic production is pointless if we’re then going to constantly drive a diesel tractor through the estate.” The winemaker’s perception of sustainability even extends beyond nature. “For us, it also covers our approach to the team, our sustainable investment strategy and our passion for wine which inspires us to strive for improvement every single day.” The estate owner focuses on promoting equality and safety in the workplace and has introduced flexible working-time models – including for employees returning to work – to allow a good work-life balance.

A sustainability charter

Mounir is keen to share knowledge about his pioneering approach. Most people are pleased to receive his expert input, but some remain sceptical. “That’s sometimes a bit frustrating,” the vintner concedes. Some of his fellow producers put him in the ‘green corner’, dismissing him as some kind of ‘organic evangelist’. “These people won’t accept that they’ll have to address this issue at some point down the line if they hope to survive long-term.” Conversely, his ideas are welcomed by the younger generation. “Winemaking that’s fit for the future is part of young producers’ DNA.”

By and large, his efforts and the pioneering activities of other producers are bearing fruit. The change in outlook has resulted in a charter that sets out 13 measures covering winemaking, social aspects, oenology, cultural heritage and communication and is based on the 13 stars in canton Valais’ coat of arms. This charter encourages winemakers to adopt a more sustainable approach and rewards them with a special label featuring the Valais brand. This provides a guarantee that the entire process ‘from the vine to the bottle’ takes place in Valais.

Generally speaking, eco-friendly production methods must be introduced in the selected vineyards within the first three years, while biodiversity has to be promoted and irrigation of the estates optimised over the following decade. Regular rigorous inspections ensure the measures are actually implemented.

The ‘Cave du Rhodan’ organises special wine-related experiences, such as the ‘Wine and Walk’ with theMounir family or a qualified hike leader to explore the estate’s vineyards, as well as wine tasting, cosy fondues or gourmet menus accompanied by wine.