How wine and cheese help shape Swiss politics

Aperitifs are more central to political life in French-speaking Switzerland than in the German-speaking regions, reflecting cultural differences. In the middle of the vineyards, with views of the Mont Blanc massif and the Chablais mountains, stands the rustic tavern of the L’Ovaille wine estate in the village of Yvorne. Here, Vaud agricultural minister Valérie Dittli has invited guests to a special date in the canton's political calendar: the presentation of local “vins d’honneur” and the “fromage d’excellence” [selected wines and cheeses]. In a blind tasting session, members of the cantonal government selected one white wine and one red wine originating from Vaud. These will be served at official cantonal events in 2026. The distinction is a marketing tool for local products. “But it also shows how important food and wine are in French-speaking Switzerland,” says Dittli, who represents The Centre Party in the Vaud cantonal government, despite being originally from canton Zug.