Valais pours out: “Open Wine Cellars” celebrate their 20th anniversary

An entire valley dedicated to enjoyment: from May 14 to 16, 2026, 242 wine cellars in Valais open their doors.

Spring is once again in the air – between vineyards and Alpine scenery. Over the Ascension weekend, the Rhône Valley transforms once more into a journey of discovery centered on taste, and this time in a very special edition. The ​“Open Wine Cellars Valais” celebrate their 20th anniversary.

At the premiere in 2007, 98 wine cellars took part. For Claude Crittin, head of the winery Cave St-Pierre, the ​“Open Wine Cellars Valais” played a decisive role in making the world of wine accessible to customers – long before wine tourism became a trend. ​“Back then, people didn’t really dare to simply knock on the door of a winery to buy wine. Thanks to this event, the ice could be broken.” In this anniversary year, an impressive 242 wine cellars are opening their doors, inviting visitors to explore Valais glass by glass. But it’s about more than just tastings: it’s the encounters with the people behind the wines that shape the character of the event. Winemakers share their passion and offer insights that are otherwise rarely accessible. Even those who do not consider themselves wine connoisseurs quickly find their way in.

The concept is deliberately simple: no tight schedule, no fixed routes. Instead, visitors move freely from village to village, discovering new places spontaneously and lingering where they feel comfortable. The density of wine cellars is particularly high around Sion and Sierre, while smaller communities offer a quieter, almost intimate atmosphere. To keep the focus entirely on enjoyment, shuttle buses and public transport ensure relaxed mobility between the stops. Traditionally, the event also offers the opportunity to discover the new vintage. And this one creates additional anticipation: according to experts, the 2025 vintage confirms the ​“rule of five,” according to which years ending in five are considered particularly successful. Emmanuel Charpin, oenology engineer and deputy director of Château de Villa, is accordingly enthusiastic: ​“This vintage impresses with intense aromas, supported by a beautiful acidity. These are balanced wines that appeal to a broad audience.” His favorites: ​“Cornalin is both easy-drinking and full of character – opulent without heaviness, with good aging potential. And Petite Arvine reveals its typical citrus notes – a true pleasure!”

For the 20th anniversary, the program is enhanced with additional highlights. In Sion, the ​“Jardins des Vins” brings together numerous producers in one place – ideal for a compact overview. Musical highlights are provided, among others, by the PALP Festival, which takes place on Saturday evening at the Usine de Chandoline. With Sébastien Tellier, a defining figure of the French electro-pop scene will perform. The ​“Open Wine Cellars Valais” offer a unique opportunity to discover the diversity of grape varieties and blends, to immerse oneself in the stories of winemakers and cellar masters, and to listen to the anecdotes that have accumulated over two decades. In short: Discover. Taste. Experience!

When: May 14 – 16, 2026

Open Wine Cellars

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