The Amazing Story Of Riesling Origin

Riesling is a white grape that originated in the Rhine region in southwestern Germany. However, the earliest mention of the Riesling grape can be traced back to the 15th century, so it is a fairly new variety when looking at the entire history of wine. 

Riesling is currently estimated to be the 20th most widely produced grape variety, but it is considered to be one of the most popular types of wine in the world. So now, let’s delve into the rich history of Riesling.

What region of Italy is Riesling from?

While Riesling originated in the Rhine region in Germany – it is also grown in Italy. Specifically, one of the most popular regions in Italy where Riesling is grown in the northeastern Alpine regions of Trentino and Alto Adige.

The reason it excels in these two regions is because of the high altitude and the poor soil. While this region in Italy has a higher altitude compared to the Rhine – it still mimics the type of environment that is best suited for Riesling.

The other regions in Italy where Riesling is cultivated are Lombardy, Vento, and Friuli-Venezia. While these regions are not as popular as Trentino and Alto Adige, they are still popular because of the conditions mentioned above.

 

Why do people think it originated in France or Greece?

While many popular wines originated in France – Riesling is not one of them. 

Riesling was grown in the Alsace region in France in the same century as when it was first grown in the Rhine region in Germany, but this occurred in the second half of the 15th century while it was first grown in Germany in the first half of the 15th century.

This is most likely the reason why people think it originated in France, but there is a consensus that it was actually Germany and not France that Riesling originated from. 

It also might be easy to see why people think Riesling originated in Greece as well. While France is synonymous with wine – Greece is home to over 300 different grape varieties. 

Greece is also one of the first countries where wine was introduced, so it is easy to see why you would think Riesling originated there, and while it may offer several great varieties – Riesling ultimately did originate in Germany.

Final thoughts on the Origin of Riesling

Riesling is one of the most popular white wines in the world today but is only produced in a few different locations that have the right climate for the grape. It originated in the Rhine region in Germany and is still the main region where the grape grows.

Certain regions in Italy and France are great for Riesling, and it is also a popular white wine in those regions. We hope you learned a little more about the origins of Riesling and its rich history.