General information
Souvignier Gris is a modern, mold-resistant grape variety that was crossed in 1983 at the Freiburg Wine Institute by Norbert Becker. Derived from Cabernet Sauvignon × Bronner, it combines power and elegance. Its reliable yield and good disease resistance have made it increasingly popular in Germany, Switzerland, and other cooler wine regions. Souvignier Gris is suitable for both still and sparkling wines.

Grape
The bunches are medium to large, elongated, and loosely structured. The medium-sized berries have pink skin and are less compact, which favors air circulation within the bunch.

Resistance

• Peronospora (downy mildew): +++
• Oidium (powdery mildew): ++
• Botrytis (gray mold): +++

Wine
Souvignier Gris produces fresh, structured wines with elegant acidity and light tannins. You'll taste subtle aromas of honeydew melon, candied apricot, and quince. The style is reminiscent of Pinot Blanc, with a bit more character and length on the finish. Also suitable for sparkling wine.

Cultivation advice
Growth is moderate to vigorous. When pruning, pay attention to the fertility of the basal buds; the upper buds generally yield better. The ripening time is comparable to Pinot Blanc. Be aware of its susceptibility to stem rot in wet or compacted soils.

Preparing the vine
The plant grows evenly and is relatively easy to train. Its open cluster structure makes it suitable for organic and ecological viticulture.

Ground preparation

• On calcareous soil: improve with lava grit
• On sandy soil: improve with bentonite and lava flour

Planting out
Soak your vine in a bucket of water for 24 hours. This allows it to soak up some water before planting.

Plant between May 1st and 15th. Use a soil auger or spade to dig a planting hole 10 cm in diameter and 30 cm deep. Insert the graft just above the ground, so that the vine protrudes 5 to 10 cm above the ground.

Planting distance

• In line: 1 meter
• Between rows: 1.5 to 1.8 meters