Roter Riesling

Roter Riesling is one of Germany’s oldest and rarest grape varieties and holds a special place in the history of the Rheingau. Despite its name, Roter Riesling is not used to produce red wine. It is a white grape variety that produces elegant and expressive white wines. Considered the historical ancestor of today’s White Riesling, many viticultural researchers believe that the red-berried form predates the widely cultivated white variety. References to Riesling in the Rhine Valley date back to the Middle Ages, making Roter Riesling an important part of the region’s wine heritage.

After nearly disappearing, the variety was rediscovered and preserved through the research efforts of Geisenheim University in the Rheingau. Today, only a few hectares of Roter Riesling remain planted in the region, making it a true rarity and a distinctive feature of the Rheingau wine landscape. At the same time, the variety is attracting renewed attention in the face of climate change. Many experts see considerable potential in Roter Riesling for the future of viticulture, as it is able to retain its freshness and balanced acidity even in warmer vintages. In this way, it combines historical significance with characteristics that are becoming increasingly valued in modern winegrowing.

With its unique aromatics and distinctive structure, Roter Riesling occupies an interesting position between tradition and modernity. It combines the character and authenticity of the Rheingau with a personality that often surprises even experienced Riesling enthusiasts. The wines display remarkable expression, subtle spice and excellent ageing potential, making them equally appealing as food companions and for pure enjoyment.