Solaris

Solaris has emerged as one of the most exciting developments in English viticulture over recent years, establishing itself as a cornerstone variety for UK wine production. This remarkable grape was developed at the Geisenheim Institute in Germany in 1975, created through a careful crossing of Merzling with a complex hybrid designed specifically to withstand challenging climatic conditions.

The Solaris grape has earned its reputation in British vineyards primarily due to its exceptional hardiness and disease resistance. Vines demonstrate remarkable tolerance to temperatures as low as minus 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, making them particularly valuable for cooler UK growing regions including the Mid and North, West Country, East Anglia, South East, and Thames and Channel areas. With 144 UK vineyards now cultivating Solaris, it has become one of the most widely planted varieties suited to British conditions.

Solaris vines show strong resistance to downy mildew and other fungal diseases that can plague vineyards during damp British summers. This natural resilience means many Solaris growers can reduce their reliance on chemical treatments, contributing to more sustainable winemaking practices. Currently, 12 UK Solaris producers practice organic or biodynamic viticulture, with the variety naturally lending itself to environmentally conscious farming methods.

English Solaris wine offers impressive versatility in the winery as well. The variety produces wines ranging from bone dry to medium sweet styles, with an aromatic complexity that has surprised even seasoned wine critics. Typical tasting notes include vibrant tropical fruit characters of pineapple and passion fruit, balanced by fresh citrus acidity and delicate floral undertones. The grape's early ripening nature ensures consistent sugar development even in cooler English summers, while maintaining the brightness essential for quality white wine production.

Many Solaris vineyards welcome visitors for tastings and tours, with 45 estates open to the public offering the chance to experience English Solaris wine firsthand. From single varietal expressions to innovative skin contact orange wines, the variety showcases the exciting potential of British viticulture. Solaris truly represents a triumph of modern grape breeding, proving that the English climate can produce wines of genuine character and quality.