The Solaris grape is gaining recognition in the wine industry for its remarkable resistance to fungal diseases and its ability to produce high-quality wines, even in cooler climates. As a prominent PIWI varietal, the Solaris grape is at the forefront of sustainable viticulture, offering a promising solution to some of the most pressing challenges faced by modern winemakers.

The Solaris grape is a white grape variety developed in Germany by Norbert Becker at the Freiburg Wine Institute. It was officially released in 1975 and has since become a favorite among winemakers seeking disease-resistant varieties. Solaris is a cross between Merzling (itself a hybrid of Seyve-Villard and Riesling) and GM 6493 (a hybrid involving Zarya Severa and Muscat Ottonel).

The Solaris grape boasts several characteristics that make it stand out:

Disease Resistance - The Solaris grape is highly resistant to powdery mildew, downy mildew, and botrytis, significantly reducing the need for chemical treatments. This resistance is a major advantage for sustainable and organic viticulture.

Climate Adaptability - Solaris thrives in cooler climates, making it ideal for regions such as Germany, Switzerland, and the UK. It ripens early, even in less sunny conditions, ensuring a reliable harvest.

Flavor Profile - Wines made from the Solaris grape typically exhibit a rich and complex flavor profile. Expect notes of tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and passionfruit, along with hints of citrus and floral undertones. The wines often have a well-balanced acidity and a full-bodied texture.

Cultivating the Solaris grape involves understanding its unique needs and benefits:

Vineyard Management - Due to its strong disease resistance, the Solaris grape requires fewer fungicides, reducing environmental impact and costs for vineyard owners. This makes it an attractive option for organic and biodynamic farming.

Soil and Climate - Solaris performs well in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained conditions. Its early ripening nature makes it particularly suited to cooler climates, where it can develop full flavors without the risk of underripeness.

Harvesting - The Solaris grape typically reaches maturity in early to mid-September, making it one of the earliest ripening white varieties. Its thick skin helps protect it from pests and diseases, allowing for flexibility in harvesting times.

The Solaris grape is a key player in the push towards sustainable winemaking. As climate change and environmental concerns drive the industry to adopt more sustainable practices, PIWI varietals like Solaris offer a practical and effective solution. The reduced need for chemical interventions aligns with organic and biodynamic farming principles, making it easier for vineyards to achieve certifications and attract eco-conscious consumers.

Wines produced from the Solaris grape showcase its versatility and quality:

White Wines - The most common use of Solaris is in the production of white wines. These wines are typically aromatic, with a rich bouquet of tropical fruits, balanced acidity, and a full-bodied mouthfeel. They can be enjoyed young or aged to develop more complex flavors.

Sweet Wines - Solaris can also be used to make sweet wines, including late harvest and ice wines, thanks to its high sugar content and balanced acidity. Try for example Solaris Beerenauslese by Weingut Hemer. 

Sparkling Wines - The grape's natural acidity and fruitiness make it suitable for producing sparkling wines, offering a refreshing and elegant alternative to traditional sparkling varieties. Try for example the examples by Weingut Galler and VDP. Weingut Balthasar Ress. 

Notable Regions and Producers of the Solaris grape

While the Solaris grape originated in Germany, its cultivation has spread to various parts of Europe and beyond:

Germany - The primary home of Solaris, with significant plantings in regions like Baden and Rheinhessen.

Switzerland - Increasingly popular due to its adaptability to cooler climates and high altitude vineyards.

United Kingdom - Gaining traction as an alternative to traditional varieties that struggle with the UK's

unpredictable weather.

Scandinavia - Emerging as a viable option for regions with very cool climates, where traditional grape varieties cannot thrive. Read more about winemaking in Denmark here, and about Winemaking in Sweden here. 

Further Readings

PIWI International