Definition: Charmu

The local term in French-speaking Switzerland, "charmu" or "mur chauve", refers to a bare wall that does not support a roof. A dry stone wall, and by extension, a vineyard surrounded by low walls or a hedge. See clos. An expression used to describe terraces in steeply sloping vineyards. These terraces are no more than 10 to 15 metres wide and are supported by walls that can reach heights of 5 to 6 metres. With a reduced slope, the impact of the sun's rays is diminished, but the vineyard charmus, surrounded by these closely spaced stone walls, store solar energy very effectively if the terraces are not too wide. A few small plots in Dézaley are typical examples of charmus construction. These walls must be maintained regularly, especially after heavy frosts and downpours, so that they can continue to fulfil their very important role on steep slopes.