Schwarzriesling in German means Black Riesling. However, the vines have no relation whatever to the popular white Riesling grape. The Schwarzriesling grape variety is over 2,000 years old. It produce a semi-dry or dry fruity red wine and is used for Champagne-style blends.
Schwarzriesling’s Burgundy Relatives
According to the German Wine Institute, whose German name (Deutsches Weininstitut) has the amusing acronym of DWI, this dark purple grape actually belongs to the Burgundy family. Schwarzriesling is a mutation of the more familiar Pinot Noir grape, which is called Spatburgunder in German. This branch of the Burgundy family is believed by scientists in the field of ampelography to have been developed over 2000 years ago. Other names for the variety are Müllerrebe in Germany and Pinot Meunier in France.
Black Riesling’s Terroir
Black Riesling has been grown extensively in France and Germany for generations. Occupying vineyards mainly in the Baden-Wurttemburg state of Germany, and in the Alsace, it occupies a little over two percent of the total German wine-producing terrain. In the last several decades, vintners have brought it not only to other parts of Germany but also to Australia and North America. It is somewhat hardier and higher-yielding than its parental Pinot Noir. In other words, it can be grown in locations with harsher weather and poorer soil than its fussy relative. It blooms late so late frosts do not impact the harvest.
Characteristics of Schwarzriesling
As a varietal, Schwarzriesling produces a ruby or brick-red wine slightly lighter than that yielded by Pinot Noir grapes. The wine is fruity and semi-dry with a mild body. It is frequently sold as table wine. A significant percentage of the Black Riesling grapes become rose’ wine, and some wineries produce sweet versions as well. In addition, a large number of Black Riesling grapes are blended with other varieties to produce sparkling wines.
Pairing Foods with Schwarzriesling
The dry side of this wine pairs well with pork and lamb. The fruitiness offsets the heaviness of these dishes. Schwarzriesling’s versatility is evident because it can also be paired with light cheeses and coldcuts. It makes a great alternative to Pinot Noir. Many enjoy simply sipping this light, fruity wine on a warm summer day.
Where to Buy Schwarzriesling
The best place to find Schwarzriesling, as with any other wine varietal, is in its native habitat. Therefore, a journey to Wurrtemburg, Germany, or the French winegrowing regions is the best way to encounter it. However, this variety is often labeled under its French nomenclature, or Pinot Meunier. Look for this name on labels produced in North America and Australia.
Schwarzriesling, though it can be weak and uninteresting at times, can become a flavorful experience in the hands of the right vintner. Another rather pleasing characteristic of this wine is it tends to be rather inexpensive compared to other types. It would behoove any wine lover to experiment with it where it is found.
Sources:
- California State University Fresno
- German Food Guide
- Deutsches Weininstitut/German Wine Institute
Karren Tolliver - Karren Doll Tolliver is from the Midwest USA and received a BA in English from Mississippi University for Women in 1984. Writing since she ...
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