Geography & Climate
The Rheingau is a compact region, consisting of a single, 30-kilometer stretch of south-facing vineyards on the north bank of the Rhine River. This perfect southerly aspect maximizes sun exposure.
The region is protected from cold northern winds by the Taunus Hills, which creates a milder microclimate ideal for viticulture. This unique geography allows the Riesling and Spätburgunder grapes to achieve optimal ripeness, resulting in wines with more body and power than those from the Mosel.
History of the Rheingau
The Rheingau’s winemaking tradition was established by Charlemagne in the 8th century and cultivated by Benedictine and Cistercian monks, who founded famous monasteries like Kloster Eberbach and Schloss Johannisberg. These estates were pioneers in German wine, credited with identifying the value of late-harvested grapes (Spätlese) in the 18th century and championing Riesling as a noble variety.
The region’s focus on quality and its association with the aristocracy cemented its blue-blooded reputation. The Rheingau was also instrumental in developing the modern concept of dry (trocken) wines in Germany.
Germany 
0Grape Varieties
