Rheinriesling is a white grape variety native to the Rhine valleys, where its presence has been documented since at least the 15th century. From there, it spread to Germany, Alsace, Austria and numerous wine-growing regions around the world, establishing itself in Italy too, particularly in Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Oltrepò Pavese and the hilly areas of the north-east. The vine has medium-sized, rounded and almost entire leaves, with thick, wavy margins and a dark green colour; the bunch is small, stocky and compact, sometimes with a distinct wing, whilst the berry is small or medium-small, spherical, with a firm skin and a yellow-amber hue when ripe. Ripening is rather slow, and the variety thrives in well-exposed locations that allow for full aromatic development. The wine is characterised by a straw-yellow colour with greenish highlights, marked freshness and a refined aromatic profile, in which apple, peach, citrus, white flowers and, depending on the soil and ageing, mineral and hydrocarbon notes emerge. It can be vinified as a dry, semi-sweet or sweet wine, as well as used for sparkling wines. Its natural acidity supports remarkable longevity, allowing the wine to develop complexity and depth with ageing. It is important to distinguish it from Riesling Italico, a genetically distinct variety with a different oenological profile.
