Germany is well known for it's picturesque landscapes and history. But, in southwest part of this captivating country lies the Rheingau wine region. A place where centuries old winemaking traditions merge seamlessly with breathtaking natural beauty. The Rheingau is located along the banks of the mighty Rhine River. This region is celebrated for its world class Riesling wines, charming vineyards and historic towns. We will explore some history of winemaking and why you should make this a vacation!
Let's begin our virtual vacay thru the Rheingau Region with a little history & fun stuff...
The Rheingau Region has a storied past dating back over a thousand years. Monks began making wine in the 12th century! It is where Thomas Jefferson visited in 1788 and brought vine cuttings back to America to plant his own vineyard. It is here that Riesling, Germany's most celebrated white wine grape has it's perfect home. The wineries here have been producing exceptional wines for generations. Despite its small size, it can be called one of the most famous, important and reputable wine growing regions in Germany. Beyond the wines, there are wonderful castles, monasteries and churches to visit. It is also home the the Geisenheim Research Institute, also known as Geisenheim Wine Institute, where some of Germany's famous varietals are created. Thousands of visitors each year come for the wine of course, but also the walking, biking, hiking or enjoying music festivals. We are very pleased to have five wineries in this region!
Onwards to the grapes...
Riesling is the leading actor in the Rheingau. With it's diversity from dry to sweet and flavors of citrus to stone fruit. It is the classic & delicious wine of Germany. The other co-stars in the region are:
Pinot Blanc or in Germany Weissburgunder: A white grape with a fresh crisp, peachy, refreshing character. Light Bodied, medium acidity.
Grauburgunder aka Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio: This purplish/pinkish grape mutation of pinot noir. It is known to be a zesty white wine, light to medium bodied, medium acidity.
Spatburgunder, aka Pinot Noir: Germany is the world's third largest producer of Pinot Noir. This grape has flavors of red fruits and earthiness. Some are spicy and some aged in oak. Dry, medium bodied, lower tannins with medium acidity.
Travel Travel Travel..... The Rheingau Region, it's not just for wine lovers! (But maybe you'll convert!)
With so much to do in this region, you don't even have to wait for a certain season. The summer is filled with all sorts of activities and being right on the beautiful Rhine, you cannot go wrong. Hiking the vineyards, walking, biking. Sight seeing one of the many castles or monasteries that are so rich in history. Or during the holidays, come to sip on some delicious & warm Glühwein at the beautiful Christmas Markets! For more help on tourist information, check out: https://www.rheingau.de/
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