Origin: Silvaner is one of the oldest autochthonous grape varieties in Austria. Silvaner was already widespread in the Upper Rhine and Lake Constance regions in the 15th century. 

 

Interbreeding: The variety is an interbreeding between Traminer and Österreichisch Weiß and used to be called "Österreicher".

 

Characteristics: The leaf is pentagonal, five-lobed, little bent and wavy. The Silvaner is vigorous in growth, fertile and, thanks to its good stability in flowering, produces even, high yields in frost-proof locations. The ripening time is medium. Due to the medium wood maturity, the variety is sensitive to winter frost.

 

Grape: The grapes are characterised by their small clusters with a densely packed berry structure. The grapes are cylindrically shaped and have conspicuous shoulders on which the berries present their characteristic green-yellow colour. The berries are small, roundish and have small dots.

 

Wine: At optimal ripeness and moderate yield, this variety produces balanced wines with fine acidity and delicate aromas. The character of Silvaner is significantly influenced by location and soil quality. On clay soils, the wines often tend to be more neutral, while weathered soils produce elegant and finely structured wines. In terms of its type, Silvaner is a grape variety that may have less pronounced fruit notes, but at the same time excellently reflects the particularities of the terroir.

 

Cultivation: Because of its sensitivity to winter frost, it is advisable not to grow the variety in late-ripening or low-lying vineyards. Silvaner thrives best in fertile, well-drained soils of medium to heavy texture that ensure a good supply of nutrients. Otherwise, there may be a considerable decline in shoot growth. Dryness and shallow soils are unfavourable for this grape variety.