Müller-Thurgau or Rivaner, a white wine variety, is today considered the most successful new white wine variety worldwide
Image gallery: Müller-Thurgau
The white grape variety Müller-Thurgau, also known as Rivaner, was created in 1882 by the Swiss botanist and grape breeder Hermann Müller-Thurgau (1850 - 1927). This new cross of Riesling and Madeleine Royale was named much later after its breeder. Also an offshoot of the original grape vine has been preserved in the Swiss municipality of Wädenswil. The Müller-Thurgau grape is medium-sized with loose bunches of berries, which are yellowish-green in colour and juicy.
The vine requires no particular climate or soil type - however, it prefers rather deep, fresh and not to dry soils. Too cold winters (with less than -15 degrees C) can harm the vines. Müller-Thurgau grapes ripen relatively early and their cultivation can be very profitable. The resulting white wine satisfies with a pleasant acidity level, fruity savours and a light aroma of nutmeg. It should be drunk within the first two or three years after its production and goes particularly well with light dishes like asparagus, starters, cooked or roast fish and can of course also be served as an aperitif.
Serving temperature: 10 to 12 degrees C
