As autumn settles over the sunlit slopes of Valais some grapes linger. They bask longer in the sunlight than others slowly withering under the caress of the wind concentrating their aromas and allowing nature to write their story. From this patient waiting is born the MITIS an exceptional sweet wine from the late harvests of Valais bearing the prestigious Grain Noble ConfidenCiel label.
Since 1996, the Grain Noble ConfidenCiel charter has been perpetuating the Valais tradition of high-quality sweet wines. Today, it brings together more than 30 winemakers committed to adhering to strict specifications: overripe grapes on the vine, traditional Valais grape varieties, and excellence at every stage of the winemaking process.
Learn more about the Grain Noble ConfidenCiel charter
High above Vétroz at 600 meters altitude this wine takes root and draws its character from the region’s black schist soil austere and demanding which shapes its elegance and structure.
A wine shaped by time
Late harvest refers to the process of picking grapes several weeks after they have reached optimal ripeness. This waiting is no accident as it allows the berries to naturally gain in sugar aroma and substance. Depending on the region and the vintage three natural phenomena delicately contribute to the concentration of the grapes.
Overripening
After reaching maturity the grapes remain on the vine lose some of their water and become more concentrated. The sugar content of the berries intensifies and their texture becomes denser resulting in a rich mouthfeel that highlights their sweet aroma.
Grape shriveling
Gradually dehydrated by the sun and the wind the berries concentrate their sugars and develop intense aromas of golden honey and candied fruits
Noble rot
Noble rot also known as botrytis cinerea gently penetrates the skin of the berries causing natural evaporation that concentrates their inner richness. The result is an exceptional complexity woven with notes of honey dried apricot saffron and delicate spices.
MITIS: overripe grapes, shriveled on the vine
The MITIS is a patient expression of Valais, made from overripe grapes (dried on the vine), where each bunch is carefully selected to ensure the intensity and balance of the wine. After slow fermentation, it is aged in barrels for 18 months, allowing time to sculpt the substance and reveal its depth.
Late harvest wines from Valais a renowned specialty
Switzerland and especially Valais upholds a strong tradition of late harvest winemaking. Valaisan vintners favor carefully selected indigenous grape varieties to craft these sweet wines with their unique aromatic richness.
Among the most commonly used varieties
- Amigne
- Ermitage (Marsanne)
- Johannisberg (Sylvaner)
- Malvoisie (Pinot Gris)
- And sometimes even certain sun dried red grapes
The warm, dry autumn climate of Valais naturally encourages the grapes to overripen on the vine. This results in wines of great purity, characterized by sweetness and supported by remarkable acidity that highlights their elegance.
Exploring the dishes that complement this wine
Thanks to its natural sweetness and aromatic richness Le MITIS pairs beautifully with both classic and refined dishes. As a starter it goes perfectly with foie gras whether pan seared or in terrine. At the end of the meal it harmonizes with blue cheeses such as Roquefort Bleu or Gorgonzola wrapping them in delicate elegance.
With desserts it fully reveals its fruity and sweet character apricot tart from Valais poached pears almond or honey pastries. Its balance of sweetness and freshness enhances every bite without ever overpowering it.
With Le Mitis the Jean René Germanier Estate expresses the full finesse of Valaisan late harvest winemaking. This sweet wine born of patience and care embodies the art of elevating both time and terroir. A precious cuvée for those wishing to discover the richness of great Swiss sweet wines where intensity balance and elegance meet.