World Chasselas Day 2024: celebrating a legendary grape variety

Imagine yourself on a sunny terrace overlooking Lake Geneva, a glass of wine in your hand, catching the evening sun. The first sip is surprising: it is light, refreshing and yet full of subtle nuances. What you are enjoying is a Chasselas – a wine as diverse as the landscapes from which it comes.

Chasselas is one of the oldest grape varieties known in the world. Often underestimated, it has a lot to offer. No wonder the grape variety deserves its own international holiday: the Association for the Promotion of Chasselas (Association pour la promotion du chasselas) will celebrate the second edition of the event on 12 December 2024 with World Chasselas Day (or Gutedel Day).

The idea for the special day was sparked by the realisation that the Chasselas variety was missing from the calendar of international grapevine days. Although it is the most widely grown white grape variety in Switzerland, its cultural and historical heritage had not yet been officially recognised.

‘Chasselas is part of our heritage and deserves to be recognised,’ says Nathalie Favre, secretary general of the Association pour la promotion du Chasselas (Association for the Promotion of Chasselas).

Although Chasselas is particularly widespread in Switzerland, it is also grown in other countries. It was therefore decided to celebrate the day internationally.

With events in Switzerland, France, Germany and even a new initiative in London, the second edition shows that Chasselas is gaining worldwide recognition.

A versatile wine for connoisseurs

Chasselas is characterised by its extraordinary adaptability – a true ‘chameleon wine’. It adapts to different terroirs and always brings out the best.

Despite its versatility, Chasselas is often undervalued. ‘I've already converted many people, even those who don't drink white wine!’ says Nathalie Favre.

She finds tasting old vintages particularly exciting – the Chasselas is always able to surprise her anew.

The 2024 edition promises numerous exciting highlights:

• New international event: an exclusive tasting and masterclass in London will put the Chasselas on the British stage.

• Partnership with Verbier: this renowned ski resort will enrich the festivities as a new partner.

• Town of Aigle: The launch of the ‘Ville du Goût 2025’ will be announced here on 12 December, underlining the connection between culinary art and wine.

A total of ten to twelve high-profile events are planned, all of which will showcase the Chasselas and invite consumers to discover and celebrate the grape variety.