Petite Arvine

Petite Arvine is one of the signature white grapes of Switzerland's Valais. It is valued for an expressive combination of citrus fruit, freshness and a distinctive savoury edge that can suggest salt on the finish. It is a particularly useful name to learn when moving beyond Chasselas into the region's more individual white varieties.

The range is wider than a single dry style. Producers also make wines with some sweetness and concentrated sweet wines from late or withered grapes. The acidity helps balance that richness, but a sweet bottle still has a different role from a dry one. Read the description rather than expecting a single result from the grape name.

A dry Petite Arvine is an appealing partner for shellfish, fish, poultry or a dish where citrus-like freshness and texture are both welcome. Do not serve it so cold that its perfume disappears. For a sweet version, choose the dessert around its actual concentration and sweetness, allowing a small pour to do more work than a large glass.