Variety
WhiteElbling
Also known as: Weißer Elbling, Kleinberger
Ancient, high-acid white variety of the Upper Mosel, also grown in Luxembourg; gives light, fresh wines and base wines for sparkling.
Portrait
Elbling is among the oldest white varieties in Central Europe and is often linked with Roman viticulture on the Mosel. Genetically it goes back to Gouais Blanc and a cross of Traminer and an unidentified variety, so it shares its parent lines with Riesling. From the Middle Ages to the early 20th century it dominated German vineyards; today its focus is the Upper Mosel and the Luxembourg Moselle valley.
The vine buds late, ripens late and is productive; the musts are low in sugar. The wine is light, with high acidity and neutral flavour, resembling a lighter, tarter version of Silvaner. Elbling is used mainly as a base for Mosel sparkling wine; varietal still wines are most common in Luxembourg.
The wine is drunk young and goes with fish, crayfish, light vegetable dishes and starters.
Taste profile
Six axes — acidity, sweetness, body, tannin, aroma intensity and depth — on a 0–5 scale, based on typical style. Real wines vary by region and producer.
Typical aromas — Elbling
These 6 aromas typically define Elbling. Actual taste experience varies by region and style.
Green apple
Lemon
Gooseberry
Hay
Limestone
Pear
Elbling aroma families
These aroma categories are characteristic of Elbling. Other varieties have different focuses.
Fruit aromas are the most common and come directly from the grape, ranging from citrus through stone fruit to black berries.
Mineral notes are considered terroir-typical, emerging from soil, acidity and pH.
Key regions
Elbling is grown in the following regions of our atlas. Click to see wineries.
Wineries with Elbling
2 curated profiles in our atlas grow Elbling.
2 wineries
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