Rheingau
The Rheingau is the historic heart of German Riesling, a south-facing stretch where the Rhine bends west. Wines are typically fuller-bodied and more often dry than Mosel counterparts, with structure suited to long aging. Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) plantings around Assmannshausen represent a meaningful red component. The VDP's Erstes Gewächs and Grosses Gewächs tiers identify dry top sites.
Signature grapes
Defining styles
Famous appellations
- Erbach
- Rüdesheim
- Hochheim
History
The Cistercian monastery at Eberbach pioneered ranked vineyards in the 12th century. Schloss Johannisberg is credited with the 1775 accidental discovery of late-harvest Spätlese when a courier was delayed. Schloss Vollrads claims continuous wine production since the 13th century. The 19th century saw Rheingau Rieslings priced alongside top Bordeaux on London merchants' lists.