Red humagne was considered for a long time to be native to Valais, even though it was suspected to have origins from the Val d'Aoste in the north of Italy due to its similarities to the little red which is cultivated there. In fact, more recent DNA studies show that the red humagne from Valais and the cornalin from Val d'Aoste are in fact the same vine variety. As far as the little red from Aoste is concerned, it is in fact red humagne's grand father who was parented by the cornalin from Valais. You follow? It should also be mentioned that red humagne was wrongfully named because it has nothing to do with white humagne, the true humagne, considered to be the wine of new mothers.

Red humagne is a vine variety of the 3^rd period. As with all late vine varieties, it needs to be planted on low, well exposed plots. This vine variety has regular fertility but ripens with difficulty. In order for it to reach its full potential, its yield should be limited. When well controlled, this vigorous vine species shows itself to be rather docile. In fact, it is insensitive to rot and has no difficulty in setting fruit. In the worst case, it can be sensitive to powdery mildew.

Red humagne vines are easily recognised by the big, dark green leaves which are heavily blistered and have noticeable teeth. The bunch of grapes is quite big and cone-shaped and contain round, medium sized grapes. The grapes have a hard skin which makes them very resistant to grey rot.

Red humagne makes a dark red, full-bodied and slightly rustic wine. When it hasn't been left to mature long enough, plant-like flavours get the upper hand. A good harvest enables you to make an unforgettable wine. The black, sometimes purple fruits are united by hints of juniper, oak bark and even humus. Red humagne's originality is greatly appreciated when making wine by blending together more than one vine variety.

While the cornalin from Aoste has not spread, red humagne is spreading within the Valais. 75 hectares of it were counted in 2002 as opposed to 43 hectares in 1991. It is not expected to spread much further due to the fact that it is rather demanding.

Being wild and full-bodied, red humagne is considered to be a hunting wine. It accompanies meat marvellously, even if it has a strong flavour. It also goes very well with cheese. A well aged humagne goes well with cheese from high mountain pastures, veal's liver or loin of lamb.