Savoyen was under Italian rule for a long time. The area has had AOC status since 1973. On the slopes of the most famous ski-region in France, some of the best sites are at 300 m above the lakes and banks of the Rhône. The many areas make classification difficult.
The microclimate in the rather cool valleys is variable. The partially extreme climate variations in the mountains are buffered by the reflective and heat-storing water of the lakes and Rhône.
The wines in this region are sweet, delicious and distinct. Though most are dry and pearly, they can also be a bit sweet. The white wines are similar to the Fendant wines of Switzerland, the red wines have been influenced by their neighbors in Beaujolais. Many different vines are used for the wine-production, but only few in large quantities. Mostly Gamay, Mondeuse, Jacquére, followed by Altesse and Roursanne are used in bigger amounts.
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