W3 Wine School

Silvaner (Italy)

Italian Silvaner tends to be lighter and more crispy than French / German Silvaner.

Silvaner Flavors

Citrus, White Flowers, and freshly cut Grass are typical flavors for Silvaner, followed by some Minerality.

Lemon
Lemon
Flowers
Flowers
Grass
Grass
Mineral
Minerals

Silvaner Profile

Silvaner is dry, light, and soft with moderate fruit and a good acidity:

SUGAR:Dry 3g/l
BODY:Light
FRUIT:Medium - Low
ACIDITY:Medium - High
ALCOHOL:11-13% ABV
Temperature Serving temperature:
8-10°C (46-50°F)

Silvaner Food Pairing

Silvaner pairs best with Seafood, Fried Fish, and Fried Chicken.

Silvaner is also a super friend of Asian and Spicy Cuisine.

Aperitif
Aperitif
Salads
Salads
Vegetables
Vegetables
Asparagus
Asparagus
Oysters
Oysters
Shrimps
Shrimps
Crab
Seafood
Fish
Fish
Chicken
Fried
Chicken
Chinese
Thai
Soup
Chinese
Chinese
Takeaway
Soft Cheese
Goat
Cheese

Excellent pairings

Green Vegetables. Asparagus.
Oysters. Scallops. Clams.
Snails or Prawns with Garlic.
Vegetable Pasta.
Penne with Tomatoes and Peppers.
Alsatian - German fusion Cuisine.
Tarte Flambée (White Pizza).

The Ideal Glass for Silvaner

The Sauvignon Blanc glass is smaller than a Chardonnay glass.

It has a more narrow bowl to concentrate the crisp and citrusy aromas characteristic of zesty and fruity white wines.

Silvaner Cheese Pairing

Pairing Tips

Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the wine's acidity.

Add accompaniments like fresh fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), or a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.

Fresh and Mild Cheeses

Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes in Silvaner.

Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.

Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.

Semi-Soft Cheeses

Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Silvaner.

Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.

Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.

Hard Cheeses

Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.

Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.

Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang.

Blue Cheeses (for contrast)

Robiola: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.

If You Like Silvaner

You May Also Like:

Albariño (Spain)
Alvarinho (Portugal)
Assyrtiko (Greece)
Gavi (Italy)
Grechetto (Italy)
Greco di Tufo (Italy)
Moschofilero (Greece)
Pinot Bianco (Italy)
Sylvaner (France)
Riesling Dry (Germany)
Trebbiano (Italy)
Ugni Blanc (France)
Weissburgunder (Germany)

About Sylvaner / Silvaner

Sylvaner is a white grape that is believed to have originated in Austria or Transylvania.

It is a versatile grape that is grown in various wine regions around the world, including Germany, Switzerland, and in French Alsace.

Sylvaner wines are known for a crisp acidity, light to medium body, and subtle floral and citrus aromas. The flavor profile can include notes of green apple, pear, and sometimes a touch of minerality.

While it might not be as well-known as some other white grape varieties, Sylvaner produces refreshing and easy-drinking wines, often enjoyed as a young and lively expression of the terroir where it grows.

Sylvaner in France

Sylvaner has a controversial place in Alsace wine. Since 2006, it may be used in Alsace Grand Cru, which was previously reserved for the four "noble grapes" Gewürztraminer, Muscat, Pinot gris and Riesling.

Silvaner in Germany

In Germany it is cultivated with the official name Grüner Silvaner.

Silvaner in Italy

Italian and Swiss Silvaner tends to be lighter and more crispy than French and German Silvaner.


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