Phoenix
Also known as: Gm 7116-26
Phoenix
Summary
Phoenix is a white PIWI variety developed at Geilweilerhof, Germany, named after the mythological bird that rises from its ashes—symbolizing the rebirth of viticulture through disease-resistant varieties. Released in 1992, Phoenix has become particularly successful in cool, marginal climates like the United Kingdom, Belgium, Netherlands, and Scandinavia, where its early ripening, disease resistance, and ability to produce aromatic white wines make it invaluable. With approximately 250 hectares globally, Phoenix represents PIWI success in expanding viticulture to regions previously considered too challenging.
Identity
VIVC: Entry #9117
Berry Color: BLANC
Type: PIWI (Interspecific hybrid)
Breeding Number: Gm 7116-26
Creator: Geilweilerhof Research Station (now JKI), Germany
Year: 1964 (crossing); 1992 (release)
Name Origin: Named after the Phoenix, the mythological bird that regenerates from flames—symbolizing viticulture’s renewal through disease-resistant varieties.
Genetic Origin
Parentage: Bacchus × Villard blanc
Breaking down the parentage:
- Bacchus: German aromatic variety (Silvaner × Riesling) × Müller-Thurgau; provides aromatics
- Villard blanc: French-American hybrid (Seibel 6468 × Subéreux); provides disease resistance
Breeding Achievement: Combined German aromatic quality with disease resistance suitable for cool climates
Disease Resistance Profile
| Disease | Resistance Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Downy Mildew | HIGH | Strong resistance |
| Powdery Mildew | HIGH | Strong resistance |
| Botrytis | MEDIUM-HIGH | Good resistance |
| Black Rot | HIGH | Good resistance |
Spray Reduction: 70-90% reduction vs. traditional varieties
Value: Enables commercial viticulture in previously marginal regions
Distribution
Total Global Plantings: ~250 hectares
| Country | Hectares | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Germany | ~80 | Origin; established |
| UK | ~70 | Major variety |
| Belgium | ~30 | Significant |
| Netherlands | ~30 | Significant |
| Scandinavia | ~25 | Growing |
| Other | ~15 | Various |
Success Story: UK’s leading white PIWI variety
Viticulture
Growth Characteristics
- Vigor: Medium to high
- Growth Habit: Semi-erect
- Budbreak: Medium-early
- Flowering: Early to mid-season
- Véraison: EARLY
- Harvest: EARLY to MEDIUM (September in Germany)
Climate Requirements
- Ideal Climate: Cool to cool-marginal
- Heat Summation: 900-1,400 GDD (base 10°C)
- Frost: Good tolerance
- Value: Ripens in short growing seasons
UK Success
Phoenix thrives in the UK because:
- Early ripening suits English growing season
- Disease resistance critical in wet climate
- Aromatic character appeals to UK market
- Reliable cropping year after year
Soil Preferences
- Adaptable: Various wine soils
- Ideal: Well-drained
- Effect: Terroir influences aromatics
Viticultural Management
- Training: Guyot or cordon
- Pruning: Standard practices
- Yield Control: 60-90 hl/ha
- Spray Program: Significantly reduced
Enology
Must Parameters at Harvest
| Parameter | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brix | 18-22° | Good for cool climate |
| pH | 3.0-3.4 | Good acidity |
| Titratable Acidity | 7.0-10.0 g/L | Often high |
| YAN | 150-250 mg/L | May need supplementation |
Aroma Compounds
- Terpenes: Present (floral notes)
- Character: Bacchus-influenced aromatics
- Profile: Fruity, floral, appealing
Fermentation
- Yeast Selection: Aromatic-enhancing yeasts
- Temperature: 12-16°C (cool)
- Duration: 14-28 days
- Goal: Preserve aromatic freshness
Wine Styles
| Style | Method | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Full fermentation | Aromatic, crisp |
| Off-Dry | Residual sugar | Fruity, approachable |
| Sparkling | Traditional method | English sparkling |
Malolactic Fermentation
- Typical: Blocked to preserve acidity
- High Acid Years: Partial MLF possible
- Result: Fresh, aromatic profile
Aging Potential
- Fresh Style: 1-3 years
- Character: Best enjoyed young for aromatics
Sensory Profile
Visual
- Intensity: Pale to medium
- Hue: Greenish-yellow to gold
- Character: Bright, clear
Aromatic Profile
| Category | Descriptors |
|---|---|
| Fruit | PEACH, apricot, citrus, green apple |
| Floral | ELDERFLOWER, blossom |
| Herbal | Herbaceous hints |
| Other | Fresh, appealing |
Palate
- Body: Light to medium
- Acidity: HIGH (refreshing)
- Sweetness: Dry to off-dry
- Alcohol: Low to moderate (10-12.5%)
- Finish: Crisp, clean
Comparison to Bacchus
Phoenix shows Bacchus heritage:
- Similar aromatic intensity
- Elderflower notes
- Peachy character
- But with added disease resistance
Winemaker Considerations
Challenges
- High Acidity: May need management in cool years
- Light Body: Not for full-bodied styles
- Aging: Not for long-term cellaring
- Market Position: Competing with traditional varieties
- Yields: Can overcrop; needs control
Opportunities
- Cool Climate Pioneer: Enables viticulture in marginal regions
- Sustainability: Excellent disease resistance
- Consumer Appeal: Aromatic, approachable style
- UK Market: Established reputation
- Sparkling Base: Good acidity for sparkling
Winemaking Tips
- Cool fermentation preserves aromatics
- Control yields for quality
- Off-dry styles popular
- Consider sparkling production
- Market as sustainable, local
UK Wine Industry Significance
Phoenix’s role in English wine:
- Pioneer Variety: Helped establish UK viticulture
- Reliable Producer: Consistent quality
- Sustainability Leader: Minimal spray requirements
- Commercial Success: Proven market acceptance
Comparison with Other Cool Climate PIWI
| Characteristic | Phoenix | Solaris | Seyval Blanc |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aromatics | High | Medium-High | Low |
| Acidity | High | Medium | High |
| Ripening | Early | Very Early | Early |
| Body | Light | Light-Medium | Medium |
| Disease Resistance | High | Very High | Very High |
Sources
- VIVC Database - Vitis International Variety Catalogue
- Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI)
- PIWI International Association
- Wine GB (UK wine industry body)
- English Wine Producers
Last Updated: January 13, 2026