Sylvaner

Buy Sylvaner – a full-bodied white wine with a long tradition

Sylvaner is a traditional grape variety that is known as Johannisberg in Switzerland. Historically, it comes from Central Europe and is particularly widespread in Germany and Austria. If you want to buy Sylvaner, you are choosing an elegant and versatile white wine that is equally good as a young aperitif wine or when aged. Its delicate interplay of aromas, mineral freshness and harmonious structure make it a popular choice for wine lovers looking for a wine with depth and pedigree.

The origin of Sylvaner – a grape variety with a history

The Sylvaner grape variety has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. It originated from a natural cross between Savagnin (Traminer) and Österreichisch Weiss. It was already being cultivated in Central Europe in the 17th century, with the oldest records coming from Austria. In Switzerland, the variety has been known as Johannisberg since 1928 and is now considered an integral part of Valais wine culture.

Cultivation and climate – ideal conditions for Sylvaner

Sylvaner is a demanding grape variety that needs ideal conditions to develop its full quality. In Germany, in the wine-growing regions of Rheinhessen and Franconia, Sylvaner finds optimal climatic conditions that make it an outstanding white wine.

The best growing areas for Sylvaner vines are on light, slate and gravel soils. These soils offer good permeability and moderate warming, which promotes the development of a muscular fruitiness and a robust acidity. These characteristics are crucial for the distinctive taste of Sylvaner.

The ideal climate for Sylvaner is characterised by moderate warmth and sufficient rainfall. During the ripening period, temperatures should be between 15°C and 20°C to ensure optimal ripening and a balanced acidity.

In Austria, the home of Sylvaner, the grape variety is cultivated on an area of about 23.93 hectares, mainly in the wine-growing regions of Lower Austria and Burgenland. In Germany, Sylvaner is one of the most frequently cultivated grape varieties and is grown on an area of about 4,664 hectares, mainly in Rheinhessen and Franconia.

The Sylvaner, a cross between Savagnin and Österreichisch Weiss, was developed in Austria in the 19th century. It is known for its muscular fruitiness, robust acidity and aromas of apple, peach and mint. These characteristics make it an ideal white wine for fish dishes, as its acidity and body perfectly complement the delicacies of the fish.

Overall, Sylvaner is a grape variety that develops its full quality under the right conditions and is suitable as an everyday wine as well as for special occasions.

Sylvaner in Swiss viticulture

In Switzerland, Sylvaner is mainly grown in the canton of Valais, where it finds ideal conditions: sunny slopes, well-aerated soils and a dry climate allow the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The high altitudes in Valais in particular contribute to the outstanding quality of the Sylvaner, as they positively influence both the terroir and the taste of the wine. The grape variety prefers fertile, well-drained soils that are light to medium in weight. Despite its adaptability, Sylvaner is somewhat sensitive to cold and powdery mildew, which makes it challenging to grow.

A look at the character – aroma and style

Sylvaner is characterised by its delicate, elegant structure. In the glass, it has a light colour with greenish highlights, depending on the vintage and how it has been matured. On the nose, it has a bouquet with subtle aromas of gooseberry, herbs, citrus fruits, and sometimes hay or lemon balm.

Riesling Sylvaner, on the other hand, has a fruity muscatel bouquet and thrives at higher altitudes. It is recommended as an ideal aperitif wine and a versatile companion to a variety of dishes, including fondue, meat and asparagus.

On the palate, Sylvaner has a pleasantly crisp acidity, coupled with a creamy texture and minerally clarity. Dry versions are fresh and straightforward, while the lusciously sweet varieties delight with ripe fruit notes and a long finish.

Food pairings – Sylvaner and cuisine

Sylvaner is an excellent food companion and particularly shows its strengths in combination with fine dishes. It is classically appreciated as an asparagus wine, as its restrained fruit and moderate acidity perfectly complement the delicate flavour of asparagus.

It also goes well with fish dishes, seafood and white meats such as veal or chicken. Fondue, raclette or a mild hard cheese also benefit from its balance. Served as an aperitif wine, it brings freshness and elegance to the glass and whets the appetite.

Sylvaner compared to other white wines

Compared to well-known white wine varieties such as Riesling or Sauvignon blanc, Sylvaner is often a little more restrained in terms of its aromas. Various white wine varieties from South Tyrol are characterised by their unique properties, including fruity, floral and spicy notes that underline their international relevance. But that is precisely what makes it interesting: it is an excellent terroir indicator that clearly expresses the characteristics of its origin.

In contrast to Riesling, it is less characterised by fruit, but is more elegant, with subtle minerality. As an alternative to Grüner Veltliner or Pinot Gris, Sylvaner offers a welcome diversity for discerning palates.

Maturation and storage

Sylvaner is mostly fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its freshness and primary aromas. Some winemakers also experiment with wooden barrels, which gives the wine additional depth. The Sylvaner has a remarkable ageing potential, especially in the case of noble sweet varieties – they can easily be stored for decades and develop complex notes of honey, dried fruit and herbs.

Why buy Sylvaner?

The Sylvaner is a white wine that impresses with its versatility, elegant aromas and loyalty to its origins. It goes well with a variety of dishes, is suitable for everyday drinking and for special occasions, and, depending on how it is aged, offers an exciting range of styles – from zesty and fresh to luscious and sweet. When you buy Sylvaner, you are choosing a wine with personality, history and excellent value for money.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What type of grape is Sylvaner?

Sylvaner is a white wine grape variety that originated from a cross between Savagnin and Österreichisch Weiss. In Switzerland, it is known as Johannisberg.

What does Sylvaner taste like?

Sylvaner tastes fresh and mineral, with aromas of gooseberry, herbs and citrus fruits. The noble sweet varieties have notes of honey and dried fruit.

What food goes well with Sylvaner?

Sylvaner is an ideal companion for asparagus, fish, white meat, raclette, fondue and mild cheese. It is also a great aperitif wine.

Is Sylvaner dry or sweet?

Most Sylvaner wines are dry, but there are also noble sweet varieties that have a high storage potential.

How long can Sylvaner be stored?

Dry Sylvaner wines are usually intended for immediate enjoyment, but depending on the quality, they can also be aged for a few years. Noble sweet Sylvaner wines can be stored for decades.