The Sylvaner Verde grape variety, as listed in the National Registry of Wine Grape Varieties, or simply “Sylvaner” or “Silvaner”, is considered by some to originate from the middle Rhineland Valley, while others believe it comes from Styria. Sylvaner Verde is widespread not only in Austria but also in Germany and Eastern Europe, where it is valued for its earthy and fragrant wines, which are not particularly age-worthy or complex but still very appealing. It is also extensively cultivated in the Swiss Valais, under the names Johannisberg, Gros Rhin, or Grüner Chasselas. Sylvaner achieves its best results in Alsace, near the German border. Preferring cold regions, in Italy, Sylvaner Verde is cultivated almost exclusively in Alto Adige, particularly in the Val d’Isarco, suggesting it was introduced into the country from neighboring Austria.
Sylvaner Verde is a highly vigorous grape variety, sensitive to spring frosts as it is slightly earlier than Riesling. It thrives in cold, continental climates, which is why it is entirely absent from the southern regions of the peninsula. Sylvaner Verde provides high yields and retains high acidity, which is more pronounced due to its slightly lower structure. By controlling yields, however, it is possible to produce wines that fully express the wild aromas of the variety, explaining the origin of the name Sylvaner (“from the forest”).
