Grape variety
Johannisberg
The Valais name for Sylvaner, a soft and generous white
On Helvitic you buy your Johannisberg directly from the Valais cellars that make it, delivered to your door (free shipping from CHF 150 per cellar) or picked up at the cellar. Johannisberg is the name Sylvaner goes by in the Valais, its main home in Switzerland.
It is a softer white than Fendant, often with a touch of sweetness, at home as an apéritif or with spring asparagus.
Johannisberg or Sylvaner?
It is the same grape. Johannisberg is the Valais name; elsewhere it is Sylvaner, or Silvaner in German. On old Valais labels you may also find it as gros rhin.
What Johannisberg tastes like
A round white with gentle acidity and aromas of almond, hazelnut, white flowers and ripe fruit. Depending on the cellar it is made dry or with a little residual sugar, and some make sweet late-harvest wines from it.
What to serve with Johannisberg
Johannisberg is the classic partner of Valais asparagus. It also goes with lake fish, mildly spiced Asian food, fresh cheeses and the apéritif.
Frequently asked questions: Johannisberg
Are Johannisberg and Sylvaner the same?
Yes. Johannisberg is the Valais name for Sylvaner. The grape is the same.
Is Johannisberg a sweet wine?
It can be, but not always. Many are dry or off-dry; the words « flétri » or « vendanges tardives » mean a sweet wine.
What to serve with Johannisberg?
Asparagus first of all, then fish, mildly spiced Asian dishes, or as an apéritif.