Switzerland is home to some exquisite wines! Every region of the Alpine nation has its particular charms. What better way to discover the large array of local delicacies, than through the many wonderful wine events that Switzerland has to offer. Graubünden, Zurich, Lavaux, to name but a few, are the start to an unforgettable journey through the world of wines.
These events provide a fantastic opportunity for wine lovers to immerse themselves in Switzerland’s rich wine culture. Savor a variety of exquisite wines while engaging with passionate winemakers and fellow enthusiasts. Explore the diverse wine landscapes of Switzerland’s German, Rumantsch, French, and Italian-speaking regions, each offering its unique terroir and traditions.
Enjoy an extraordinary blend of wine tastings, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that celebrate the heart and soul of Swiss viticulture. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, these events promise a delightful exploration of the world’s most enchanting wines.
1. Weinfest Malans
Location: Malans, Graubünden
Date: September, 06.-08.09.24
Info: www.weinfest-malans.ch
Socials: @weinfestmalans
Malans, a key wine village in the Graubünden region, opens its cellars to visitors for a weekend of wine tasting. The event highlights the region’s unique wines, including those made from Pinot Noir and other varieties, and offers a chance to meet the winemakers; several of whom specialise in natural, organic, and biodynamic winemaking techniques, so our partner Liesch Bioweine.
2. Caves Ouvertes Vaudoises
Location: Canton of Vaud
Frequency: Annually, May/June, 07.-08.06.25
Info: www.mescavesouvertes.ch
Socials: @vinsvaudois
This event features open wine cellars across the Vaud region, where visitors can tour vineyards, meet winemakers, and taste a variety of local wines. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse offerings of Vaud’s wine country. The views from the terraced Lavaux vineyards are spectacular!
3. Basel Wine Fair (Basler Weinmesse)
Location: Basel
Frequency: Annually, October/November, 26.10.-03.11.24
Info: www.wein-fein-festival.ch
Socials: @weinfestival_basel
A prominent wine fair where wine enthusiasts can sample and purchase wines from Swiss and international producers. It’s a significant event for discovering new wines and learning about wine trends.
4. Vinea Le Salon Suisse des Vins
Location: Sierre
Frequency: Annually, usually in autumn
Info: www.vinea.ch
Socials: @vinea_sierre
One of the largest wine fairs in Switzerland, showcasing over 150 Swiss wineries. Attendees can taste a wide range of wines, including many from the Valais region, and participate in masterclasses and workshops.
5. Zurich Expovina Wine Fair
Location: Zurich
Date: November
Info: www.expovina.ch
Socials: @expovina
Held on moored ships on Lake Zurich, Expovina is one of the largest wine fairs in Switzerland. Visitors can sample a vast array of wines from Swiss and international producers, making it a unique and enjoyable wine-tasting experience.
6. Sagra del Borgo
Location: Mendrisio, Ticino
Date: September
Info: www.sagradelborgo.ch
Socials: @sagradelborgo
A vibrant wine festival celebrating the wines of the Mendrisiotto region in Ticino. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, local cuisine, music, and cultural events in the charming town of Mendrisio.
7. Fête des Vignerons
Location: Vevey
Frequency: Once every 20-25 years
Info: www.fetedesvignerons.ch
Socials: @fetedesvignerons
This historic festival celebrates the traditions of winemaking in the Lavaux and Chablais regions. It’s a grand spectacle with parades, music, and performances, attracting visitors from around the world. The next edition is highly anticipated given its rarity. The last edition was in 2019, and we were lucky enough to be invited.
This article is brought you in collaboration with Liesch Biowein: lieschbioweine.ch, @lieschbioweine, biodynamic since 1987