Grape varieties in South Styria

Welschriesling
The Welschriesling probably originates from northern Italy and is a very widespread grape variety that can be used in many ways. It can cover almost all quality levels and is very well suited to sparkling wine.
Welschriesling prefers warm sites and magnesium-rich soils. The ripening period is also somewhat longer for Welschriesling than for other grape varieties.
The wine is generally characterised by a higher acidity and has a very fruity bouquet. Its flavour is reminiscent of green apple and citrus. These characteristics make Welschriesling a fresh wine. Welschriesling’s versatility is particularly evident here, because in addition to being used to produce fresh summery wines, the variety is also used to make excellent sweet Prädikatweine (high-quality wines with special attributes).

Muscat
Muscat (known as “Muskateller” in German-speaking countries) is one of the oldest grape varieties and comes in several types. In Southern Styria, the most typically cultivated type is Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains (known in German-speaking countries as “Gelber Muskateller”), which has greenish yellow grapes. Although its origin cannot be proven, it is suspected that it came from Italy or Greece.
This wine is very popular and the consumption of Muscat has increased greatly in recent years. In the glass, Muscat has a light yellow colour and a distinctive aroma.

Riesling
Originally from the Upper Rhine region in Germany, Riesling has become a world-famous variety and is known as the “King of White Wines”. This variety places very high demands on the location and loves mineral-rich soil. In Southern Styria, the Sausal region is very well suited for growing Riesling: it can develop its full aroma here.
Young Riesling is fruity and spicy; it becomes complex as it matures. The dominant aromas are of stone fruit (peach and apricot) and exotic fruits.