Hebnes Vineyard sits beside Sandsfjorden in Suldal, at 59 degrees north. It belongs to a young Norwegian wine sector with limited volumes and only a handful of commercial producers, though grapevines are now being planted farther north.
Growers rely on early-ripening, resilient hybrids. Solaris, developed in Germany, can ripen while keeping high natural acidity and is mainly used for sparkling white wine. Rondo, Regent, Léon Millot and Muscaris are also planted. Norwegian wines are generally light, moderate in alcohol and fruit-driven, with the freshness that cool conditions help preserve. Solaris can also make still, orange and dessert wines.
Longer growing seasons and higher temperatures have widened the possibilities for wine grapes. NIBIO has research vineyards at Ullensvang in Hardanger and Landvik in Grimstad, linked to growers and advisers through a professional network.
Inside the region
1 named area
Each guide keeps its place within Western Norway clear, with a direct route back to the map.