Sylvaner, sometimes spelled Silvaner, is a grape variety that has been cultivated for centuries in Europe. It is particularly associated with the Alsace region of France and various German wine regions, where it has been a staple for generations. The wines produced from Sylvaner grapes are typically characterized by their light to medium body, crisp acidity, and fresh, aromatic qualities. Often, one can detect notes of green apple, pear, and sometimes hints of stone fruit or floral undertones. Historically, this grape was used as a blending partner due to its neutral profile. However, in recent years, winemakers have been showcasing Sylvaner's potential as a standalone variety, producing wines that truly reflect the terroir and the grape's unique characteristics. It's a wine that invites curiosity and appreciation, especially among those who enjoy exploring lesser-known varietals.
Sylvaner wine is made from the Sylvaner grape variety, which is often identified by its light to medium body, crisp acidity, and aromatic profile. This white grape, sometimes spelled as "Silvaner," has deep historical roots in Europe, particularly within the Alsace region of France and several wine regions in Germany. Wines crafted from Sylvaner often exhibit notes of green apple, pear, and sometimes hints of stone fruit or delicate florals. Its neutral character, which was once mostly utilized in blends, has seen a renaissance, with modern winemakers harnessing its subtleties to produce distinctive varietal wines.
The best Sylvaner wines are primarily produced in two European regions: the Alsace region of France and certain areas of Germany, notably Franconia. In Alsace, Sylvaner has been cultivated for centuries, and the region's unique terroir gives the wine a distinctive minerality and complexity. In Germany, especially in the Franconian region, Sylvaner is celebrated for its pure expression, often bottled in the region's iconic Bocksbeutel-shaped bottle. These regions' climates and soil compositions provide optimal conditions for the Sylvaner grape to thrive and express its finest characteristics.
The most popular Sylvaner wines often come from esteemed vineyards within Alsace and Franconia. In Alsace, the Sylvaner wines can achieve the Grand Cru designation, a testament to their quality and the region's reverence for the grape. In Franconia, Germany, the Sylvaner wines are revered for their purity and precision, capturing the essence of the grape with minimal intervention. Labels to look for include those from top producers who have consistently showcased the grape's potential and have garnered acclaim for their Sylvaner expressions.
Finding value in Sylvaner wines means looking for bottles that offer the characteristic freshness and aroma of the grape without a hefty price tag. While Grand Cru Sylvaner from Alsace can fetch higher prices due to their prestigious designation, there are many other quality offerings from both Alsace and Germany that provide excellent value. Exploring wines from younger vineyards or lesser-known producers can often yield delightful Sylvaner wines that don't break the bank but still deliver on taste and authenticity.
Sylvaner wines, with their crisp acidity and aromatic profile, are versatile when it comes to food pairings. They complement dishes with green herbs, making them excellent partners for salads, vegetable-based dishes, and herbed chicken or fish. Sylvaner's subtle minerality shines with seafood, especially shellfish like oysters and clams. Its refreshing nature makes it an ideal match for dishes with a hint of spice, such as Asian cuisine. Additionally, Sylvaner can accompany various cheeses, from soft varieties like Camembert to harder cheeses, enhancing the overall dining experience.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
Delivery Times
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Quality Guarantee
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
Sending a Gift
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.
We aim to have all wines be vintage specific. In the case the listed vintage is out of stock and you note you would like that particular vintage, we will inform you via email for approval to go ahead.
To be able to supply such a unique & extensive range of boutique wines, we don't hold much of the inventory. So with us, there is the added step of receiving the wine from our local suppliers before it is dispatched to you. Most orders are dispatched within 3-6 working days.
Replacement or refund offered if bottles are faulty or damaged. All our deliveries are insured against loss, however you must notify us in a reasonable amount of time.
If you would like to include a gift message with your order, please enter that in the order instructions section. We'll print your message in a lovely font on A5 paper. We also won't include the invoice. Tracking will be sent to the email on file.