|
|
The birthday of Riesling is celebrated for the first time worldwide. The German Wine Institute reports that on the anniversary of the written first mention of the grape variety on March 13, 1435, actions were organized from Amsterdam (Netherlands) to Toronto (Canada) under the hashtag #rieslingbirthday. For example, a social media competition with a prize draw will be held in Canada, a big Riesling event in Shanghai, an online competition in Finland and a birthday party in Oslo (Norway).
The 584th birthday is based on a document which proves that Klaus Kleinfisch, the administrator of John IV of Katzenelnbogen, bought set vines of a new white grape variety for a count's vineyard in Rüsselsheim for 22 shillings on March 13, 1435. In this bill the name "Riesling" is mentioned in a document for the first time. Evidence of its distribution in what is now Rheinhessen and the Palatinate dates from the late 15th and the first half of the 16th century.
Today, almost a quarter of the cultivated vineyard area in Germany bears Riesling grapes. It is considered the figurehead of German viticulture. Like no other grape variety, Riesling determines the worldwide image of the 13 German growing regions.
Next year, the German Wine Institute wants to celebrate its birthday internationally as well.
(uka / Photo: German Wine Institute)