Wines Zealand Dyrehøj-Vingaard - Solaris ROS - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Dyrehøj Vingaard’s 2021 Cuvée Solaris ROS is a dry white wine hailing from the Zealand region of Denmark. Crafted primarily from the Solaris grape, this cuvée showcases the potential of cool-climate viticulture in northern Europe. Solaris, a relatively modern hybrid variety, is prized for its resilience to disease and its ability to ripen reliably even in less forgiving climates. The 2021 vintage benefited from a relatively warm but short Danish summer, resulting in a wine with pronounced aromatic freshness, lively acidity, and precise fruit definition, favouring notes of citrus, green apple, and subtle elderflower. Dyrehøj Vingaard is known for environmentally conscious viticultural practices and a minimal intervention approach in the cellar, aiming to faithfully express the purity of both grape and place.

Zealand, or Sjælland, is the largest island in Denmark and has emerged as an exciting frontier for cool-climate wines. This region’s viticulture owes much to Denmark’s maritime climate, defined by relatively short summers, long daylight hours, and moderate rainfall, helping grapes like Solaris maintain crisp acidity while developing nuanced aromas. The soils here are often sandy and gravelly over clay, which drain well but retain enough richness for steady development. Historically, winegrowing in Denmark was a rarity, but climate change and improved vineyard technology have placed regions like Zealand on the map for elegant, food-friendly whites.

Pairing this Cuvée Solaris ROS is a pleasure due to its vivid acidity and fragrant profile. It lends itself beautifully to light, fresh dishes such as poached white fish with dill sauce, marinated Scandinavian herring, or Danish rye bread topped with pickled vegetables and shrimp. Creamy cheeses like a young Havarti also work well, while more international suggestions could include sushi, goat’s cheese salads, oyster starters, or asparagus risotto.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C. A medium-sized white wine glass will allow the aromatics to express themselves fully. Enjoy it within the next three to five years to capture its vibrant fruit and character at their peak.