The Most Important Wine Varieties in Saxony

Gold Riesling

A peculiarity in Saxon wine-growing: an Alsace–based cross between Riesling and Courtellier which has grown on the Elbe since 1913. The Gold Riesling wines have a finely aromatic bouquet and are particularly suited to be served as an open wine.

Elbling

This is one of the oldest known cultivated vines in the world. In the Middle Ages, the Elbling was acknowledged as the most important vine variety in the Elbe Valley. Today only 2 per cent of the growing surface remains planted with Elbling. It is a fresh, light and fruity wine, also ideal with appetizers or light fish dishes.

Mueller-Thurgau

By far, this is the most important vine in Saxony’s growing districts. According to the latest finding from cloning technology, this vine is a cross between Riesling and a Gutedel variety. The light, fruity wines are reminiscent of Muscat and taste best with light appetizers or in the summer as a tangy cooler.


Riesling

Riesling represents the most valuable of vine varieties among Germany's white grape vines. Documents originating from 1649 report its planting in Saxony, and today it is the second most important variety in the wine region. It is most appropriate with fish and veal: a very sprightly, sour-intoned wine with a bouquet reminiscent of peaches. White BurgundyThis is recognised as the flagship of the Saxon wine-growing district. One of the most beloved vine varieties for centuries, it continues to gain in its importance. It distinguishes itself through light to powerful wines with a lovely bouquet and thoroughbred acidity. It is highly recommended with veal and strong fish dishes.

Traminer

Cultivated in Saxony since the mid-1880s, it prospers today in the best locations in the Elbe Valley along steep, warm and not-too-dry terraces. It is a very aromatic, rich-bouquet wine with a scent that harks back to roses and is highly recommended with cheeses and sweet dishes.

Blue Late Burgundy

Grown here for over 200 years, this is one of the finest red wine varieties in the world, and is meanwhile the most frequently cultivated red vine variety in the Elbe Valley. Its aroma is reminiscent of soft fruit. The wines are velvety and full-bodied, the colour is light and sparkles like rubies. It is particularly appropriate with light meat dishes.

Dornfelder

Recognised in 1955 as a new breed, this grape has been grown in Saxony since 1991 and is currently the second most important vine variety in the Elbe Valley. Typical of the wine is its deep red colour and the powerful fruity bouquet reminiscent of raspberries and cherries. It is recommended with strong meat dishes.

Regent

A breed from 1967, a vine that is very resistant to frost (and diseases or fungi) with high crop-yields, ideally suited for maturing in wooden casks. It yields deep red, full-bodied wines with a fruity aroma and is best suited for meals of game or beef.

Additional vine varieties

Kerner, Bacchus, Scheurebe, Grey Burgundy (Rulaender)