What makes Rheingau special as a wine region? +
The Rheingau sits at 50°N latitude - one of the world's northernmost wine regions. The warming Rhine river, south-facing slopes, and slate soils create exceptional conditions for Riesling. The region produces some of the world's most age-worthy white wines, with 3,211 hectares under vine.
What wines is the Rheingau known for? +
Riesling dominates with 78% of the vineyard area and is the signature grape. Pinot Noir (Spaetburgunder) is especially renowned in Assmannshausen. "Erstes Gewaechs" (VDP.Erstes Gewaechs) is the Rheingau designation for wines from the finest single vineyards. Weißburgunder, Grauburgunder and small amounts of Müller-Thurgau are also grown.
When is the best time to visit the Rheingau? +
May to October is the main season. The harvest (September/October) is spectacular. The Rheingau Musik Festival in summer (July/August) at Kloster Eberbach is world-famous. Spring (April/May) with nature in full bloom is equally beautiful and less crowded.
How do I get to the Rheingau? +
By train: The RheingauLinie (RB 10, operated by VIAS) runs directly from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof to Eltville, Oestrich-Winkel, Geisenheim, Rüdesheim and Lorch without changing. Alternatively take the S1 to Wiesbaden and switch to RB 10. By car: A66 to Wiesbaden, then B42 Rhine road. By boat: Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) cruise ships run seasonally to Rüdesheim.