Silvaner 🥂
Photo by Agnes27 on Wikimedia Commons
Silvaner is an ancient white grape variety that originated in Austria. It is a natural cross between Traminer and Österreichisch-Weiß. From Austria, it spread to Germany, where it dates back to 1659 with plantings in Franconia. By the mid-twentieth century, it covered over thirty percent of Germany's total vineyard land, making it the country's most widely planted grape before declining in the 1970s. Today, Silvaner is primarily grown in Germany, particularly the Franconia and Rheinhessen regions, as well as in the Alsace region of France and the Valais canton of Switzerland. Cuttings of Silvaner were brought to the United States in 1858 and planted in California.
A notable detail about the grape is its traditional packaging in Franconia, where top-quality Silvaner is bottled in a distinct, flattened green flask known as a Bocksbeutel rather than a tall wine bottle.
Common aromas and flavors include green orchard fruits like pear and apple, citrus notes, and herbal notes such as fresh-cut grass, celery, and hay.
While everyday versions are made to be consumed young, premium wines can age for decades.
The wine should be served well-chilled between 46°F to 50°F. Serve in a medium-sized white wine glass with a slightly tapered bowl.