Vaud’s 2026 State Wines and Cheese Celebrate Romandy’s Political Traditions
Vaud’s government has chosen this year’s official state wines and cheese. The selections—a Chasselas from Yvorne and a Gamay from Orbe—were revealed at a traditional event hosted by Valérie Dittli. These awards highlight the deep cultural ties between wine, cheese, and politics in Romandy.
Every year, a blind tasting determines which local wines will represent the canton at official functions. The chosen bottles, one white and one red, will be served at state events in 2026. Alongside them, a Gruyère was named the state cheese.
The ceremony took place at L'Ovaille estate’s wine tavern in Yvorne, known for its views of Mont Blanc and the Chablais region. Valérie Dittli, a member of Vaud’s cantonal government, organises the event to celebrate the region’s ‘vins d’honneur’ and ‘fromage d’excellence’.
In Romandy, wine plays a key role in political culture. Both the cantonal government and parliament maintain their own ‘carnotzets’—traditional wine cellars where officials gather for apéritifs. Dittli has suggested that more time spent in these spaces could help ease political tensions. She also believes the convivial traditions of Romandy’s wine culture could improve politics in German-speaking Switzerland, where apéritifs are less common.
Political scientist Sean Müller agrees that language divides shape these customs. He notes that German-speaking Swiss politicians tend to be more direct, making social rituals like apéritifs less central to their work.
Julie Susanne Petitpierre, another local politician, supports the idea that wine fosters connection in Romandy’s political life. The tradition reflects how deeply food and drink are woven into the region’s identity.
The chosen wines and cheese will now feature at official gatherings throughout 2026. The selections underscore how Romandy’s political and social life continues to revolve around shared meals and local produce. For many, these traditions remain a vital part of governance and community.
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