Solaris is classified as a Vitis vinifera grape apt to be grown and made wine with by the EU, although it contains traces of hybrid grapes in its pedigree. It was formally listed as a Vitis viniferacultivar.[2] It received varietal protection in 2001.
Solaris was the product of a programme for breeding disease-resistant grape varieties, and has good resistance against fungal attacks. As it is a hardy variety, it is commonly grown in northern European countries with marginal climate for winemaking, such as Belgium, the Netherlands, England, Denmark, Sweden and Norway. As of 2007, there were 54 hectares (130 acres) of Solaris in Germany, of which 35 hectares (86 acres) were in Baden, where Freiburg is located.[4]
Properties
Solaris is an early ripening variety with good resistance against fungal diseases and frost.[4] It gives wines which have fruity and aromatic aromas with hints of gooseberry, citrus and elderflower with high acidity. It is considered to be suitable for dessert wines, as it ripens to high must weights. In cooler climate, with less sugar content, also as a dry wine suitable for fish, shrimp or chicken.[1]
