Origin: Helios is a fungus-resistant white wine variety bred in 1973 by the Staatlichen Weinbauinstitut Freiburg by Norbert Becker.

Interbreeding: Merzling x (Seyve-Villard 12-481 x Müller-Thurgau).

Characteristics: The leaves are medium-sized, three-lobed and intensely green. Bud burst, blossom and ripening start at about the same time as the Müller-Thurgau variety. Frost resistance is considered good to very good. The PIWI variety is vigorous with upright shoots and few side shoots. In case of high infection pressure, reduced plant protection is necessary. 

Grape: The grapes are medium sized, little shouldered, relatively loose with relatively small yellow-green berries in ripeness. Brownish-purple dots on berries indicate readiness for harvest.

Wine: The wines present themselves full-bodied, fruity with independent, delicate to stronger bouquet expression and similarity to Müller-Thurgau. A very lively acidity is framed by a juicy density.

Cultivation: Overall, Helios has low demands on vineyard site and location and produces ripe, healthy grapes even in Müller-Thurgau sites.