German wine – key grape varieties

Riesling – Of all the grapes of Germany, the most noble is the Riesling — a variety that can do well even in stony soil and can subsist on a minimum of moisture. It is also frost-resistant and a very dependable bearer of high-quality grapes which have an acidity level that gives the wine a racy freshness and contributes to its long life. To reach its full potential, Riesling needs extra days of sun; ripening is very late, indeed the Riesling grapes are the ones to be picked at the end of the harvest. It is known as Germany’s premier grape variety in terms of area (23,2% of all plantings in 2017) and was recorded for the first time in 1435.

Müller-Thurgau (say it – Moo-ler- Thur-gow) also known as Rivaner, is the second most planted grape in Germany and accounts for 12% of the total vineyard area. It is named after Professor Müller of Thurgau, Switzerland, who created it in 1882, by crossing Riesling and Chasselas (not Silvaner as previously thought). It has a 30% higher yield than Riesling and ripens earlier in harvest. Its wines are generally light, with a floral bouquet and moderate acidity. Müller-Thurgau often carries a hint of Muscat in its flavour.

Silvaner (say it – Sil-varn-er) is an old variety that once was the most important grape in Germany. While in 1970 23% of German vineyards were planted with the Silvaner grape, Meanwhile, in 2017, it accounts for only 5% of the country’s plantings. It likes average exposure to sunshine and needs moist soil. Additionally, it ripens about two weeks earlier than Riesling. Silvaner yields a rather full-bodied, neutral wine with a mild acidity, and is generally best enjoyed while it is young.

Grauburgunder (say it – Gr-ow-berg-under) is also commonly known as Pinot Gris in France and Pinot Grigio in Italy. Grauburgunder denotes the sleeker, drier, Pinot Grigio style but is called Ruländer when similar to Pinot Gris from Alsace.

Weißburgunder (say it – Vice-berg-under) is generally planted in Baden, Rheinhessen and the Pfalz. This ancient variety, which is known as Pinot Blanc in France, grows in fertile or chalky soil and ripens quite late – It is harvested later than Müller-Thurgau and has a less pronounced, relatively neutral aroma with more acidity than the Grauburgunder. It is proving popular as planting are increasing.