Païen has been a part of Valais wine culture for a very long time. Its origin is difficult to define as it is very widespread across Europe and it has many clones which means that it has a very complicated ascendance. In Valais, it is mentioned in a report from the Viège district in 1586. The name Heida is often used in Valais, it means "of very old origin".
Vine variety : Savagnin Blanc.
Colour : Golden yellow with a hint of green.
Fragrance : Citrus fruits, hazelnut, grilled almonds.
Taste : Full-bodied, complex, dense and lively. Its natural acidity makes it one of world's greatest white wines and makes it very well adapted to aging.
Alcohol : 13.5 % vol.
Ideal serving temperature : 14-16°C
Preservation : 10 to 15 years.
Fermentation : Traditional, on sediment.
Name : AOC Valais.
Culinary accompaniments : Aperitif, shell fish dishes, crayfish, lobster, foie gras, sea fish and old and mountain pasture cheeses.