Riesling

Synonym: Rheinriesling

Origin: Internationally, this variety has often carried a rather low image, but to connoisseurs, Riesling was - and still is - the most noble of all white wine varieties. Its fine aromatic character is highlighted – without imposing special cellar techniques – simply through vinification in steel tanks or large wooden barrels. Riesling is rare. In Austria, it makes up just 2.6% of all vineyards planted. But its significance reaches far beyond the statistics. Riesling is among the varieties that have helped build and strengthen the international standing of Austrian wine. With its river valleys and primary rock soils, Austria offers optimal conditions for the production of sterling class Rieslings – widely considered to be among the best in the world. Riesling has a long tradition, and not only in Austria. The original home for this grape is Germany, where its growth was authenticated in 1435. And until the 18th century, it was generally planted in vineyards comprising several other varieties as well. But only then was its true varietal character understood. Today, Riesling is found in many countries. The best and most elegant Rieslings, however, generally hail from cooler climate zones such as Austria, Germany, and the Alsace. Vineyards: 1.863 Hectars (or 4,1%)

Characteristic: This late ripening variety requires a long vegetation period for developing its unique aromas and flavors. Because Riesling needs also high humidity in order to ripen well, the river valleys of the Wachau, Kremstal and Kamptal as well as some sites in Vienna prove ideal locations for growth. Humidity and warmth also mean the right conditions for Botrytis – which is itself an ideal condition for the production of premium Prädikat wines. Warm days and cool nights give the Riesling´s fruity character a final polish.

The wines are highly elegant and possess outstanding storage potential. It is a variety that is unsuitable for barrique aging, because the potent oak would veil the wonderful Riesling fruitiness. Equally impressive about this variety: it is able to carry from vineyard to bottle the character of the terroir.

Recommendation: Exellent aging capability. Drinking temperature 8 to 10 °C.