Elbling – One of the oldest grape varieties in Germany
The white grape variety Elbling is one of the oldest grape varieties in Europe. Already in Roman times, the vine was cultivated under the then name "vitas alba" (the white grape), whose name evolved over time to "Alben" and later to "Elben" and finally found its current name Elbling. Elbling experienced its absolute peak in the Middle Ages. Here, almost 75 percent of the vineyards were planted with the white grape variety. However, in over time it was increasingly displaced by Silvaner and Riesling and almost completely disappeared from the landscape. Nowadays, Elbling is considered an absolute rarity. Although Elbling has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, it has a particularly youthful character and produces especially fresh and uncomplicated wines. The red Elbling, a mutation of the original grape variety, is extremely rare. Salmon-colored wines are made from it, which, however, fall into the white wine category. Germany is the wine country best known for its fresh and elegant white wines made from Elbling.
The simple elegance of the Elbling
The aroma of the typical Elbling extends from fruity stone fruit, such as apple or peach, to lemon and almond nuances. Single varietal white wines made from Elbling are less common. Due to its effervescence, the grape variety is often used in cuvées, most frequently for the production of sparkling wines. The light and dry summer wine is characterised by a racy acidity that has parallels to Riesling, but in this case is much softer and more elegantly integrated. The hallmark of Elbling wines is their freshness and pleasantly light drinking pleasure. White wines made from Elbling are the speciality from the Mosel - especially the Upper Mosel, as the climate here is particularly mild. The decisive factors are the sheltered valley locations and the Mosel itself, which can store sufficient heat. Mild winters with optimal rainfall allow the Elbling grapes to ripen longer, which is why the so typical fine-fruity aromas can develop. In addition to the nutrient-rich soil conditions such as slate and granite, the shell limestone soils of the Mosel are particularly well suited to Elbling. In smaller quantities, Elbling is also grown in Luxembourg, Alsace and Switzerland.
Discover Elbling at the wine specialist CAPREO
The grape variety Elbling, which is thousands of years old, interpreted in a modern way, promises uncomplicated drinking pleasure for every white wine lover. The first-class representative of Elbling and Mosel is Windfang Mosel I. It reflects the typical characteristics of the terroir and convinces with its soft to elegant structure with hints of exotic fruit aromas. The Windfang wines bring out the unique characters of the different terroirs of German wine-growing regions and stand for modern wines from young winemakers. Due to the noticeable but well-integrated acidity, the Elbling white wines prove to be great food companions. A hearty onion tart goes just as well as fried prawns with fresh fish in corn salsa. But a refreshing glass of Elbling is also an excellent choice on a warm summer evening on the terrace.