Diolinoir

Many new varieties are initially underestimated. So it proved with Diolinoir, a cross between Pinot noir and an old French grape by the name of Robin noir. The latter was found in the 1920s in a vine collection in Diolly, in Valais. As it was not known where it had been cultivated, the red immigrants were simply called Rouge de Diolly. When it was crossed in 1970, the name Diolinor came from “Diolly” and “noir”. Not much was expected of these grapes: they were only grown to lend a hand colour-wise to other Swiss varieties. In recent years, however, vintners have discovered that they are capable of much more. When produced in wooden casks, they mature into well-grounded wines with aromas of blackberries and black cherries, as well as solid, round tannins. Definitely try Diolinoir with lamb.