German Wine-growers Bet on Riesling and PinotWorld's Largest Riesling Region: the Pfalz / Plantings of Red Varietals Decline Slightly Riesling remains the darling of German wine-growers. According to data released by the German Federal Office of Statistics, an additional 700 ha (1,730 acres) were planted in Germany in 2008 – for a total of 22,434 ha (55,434 acres) – whereby Germany’s leading export varietal now accounts for some 22% of the nation’s total vineyard area of 102,340 ha (252,882 acres). Plantings of Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris) and Sauvignon Blanc also posted notable increases in acreage in 2008. Since 2008, the Pfalz is the world’s largest Riesling region – 5,458 ha (13,487 acres) – with the Mosel close behind – 5,390 ha (13,319 acres). The Mosel held the top position through 2007. In terms of Riesling plantings worldwide, some 60% of this international trendsetter is grown in Germany. Plantings of red varietals declined slightly (-1%) in 2008, yet still account for 36% of Germany’s total vineyard area. “These figures reflect domestic wine consumption patterns,” says Monika Reule, managing director of the German Wine Institute/Mainz. “In the aftermath of the red wine boom of the 90s, red wine sales have been fairly constant, with no great increases or declines.” In all, more than 100 different grape varieties are cultivated in Germany, yet only a few have significant economic relevance. The top ten varietals, for example, account for more than three quarters of Germany’s total vineyard area. Overview of the ten most important grape varieties in Germany - 2008
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