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.