WHITE AND REDS FROM OTHER VARIETIES (cont.)

Red varieties also abound in the Valais. Some are used in blends with other red grapes. This is the case with the Ancellota, which has robust tannins. When the Diolinoir is blended with Dôle, it adds richness of colour and tannic components, while Merlot offers sap and velvety roundness. The Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are highly prized today and produce fine vintages. The Durize, an original variety still found in the region of Fully, has a grape that is crunchy when bitten. On the left bank of the Rhône, the Gamaret - whose fruit is expressive and individual in character - has found ideal conditions for early maturing.