Rheinhessen
The Rheinhessen district of German is bordered by the Rhine River on its north and east and by the Nahe River on the west. This 20 by 30 mile area is Germany's largest wine-growing region and is only surpassed by Pfalz in terms of total production. This area boasts a variety of soils and microclimates and the grapes planted include the three traditional white varieties (Riesling, Müller-Thurgau and Silvaner) as well as many of the newer varietals. The red Portugieser grape is an important varietal and the area around Inhelheim is well known for the fine Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder) it produces. Some of the finest wines in all Germany are produced in the area surrounding the town of Nierstein. In this area of gentle slopes, known as the "Rheinfront" or "Rheinterrasse," some of Germany's greatest Rieslings are produced. Rheinhessen is the place where Liebfraumilch was originally produced. The vineyards surrounding a church in the town of Worms called "Liebfrauenkirche" gave its name to this soft, mellow white wine. Today, this wine is produced in four regions: Rheinhessen, Rheingau, Nahe or Pfalz.
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