Müller-ThurgauSwitzerland's accidental gift to the wine world—crisp, floral, and utterly charming!
Riesling-Silvaner, better known today as Müller-Thurgau, was created in 1882 by Swiss botanist Hermann Müller from the Thurgau canton. Originally believed to be a Riesling × Silvaner cross (hence the name), DNA analysis later revealed it's actually a Riesling × Madeleine Royale hybrid. This happy accident became Germany's most planted grape variety during the 1970s and remains popular across Central Europe.
The grape thrives in cooler climates, producing wines with less acidity than Riesling but more immediate charm. It's especially beloved in Germany's Rheinhessen, Pfalz, and Baden regions, as well as northern Italy's Alto Adige, Austria, and its Swiss homeland. Müller-Thurgau offers an accessible entry point into white wine appreciation—fruity, aromatic, and wonderfully uncomplicated.
How to recognize this grape variety?
Müller-Thurgau charms with delicate floral aromas of elderflower, acacia, and white blossoms, followed by gentle notes of green apple, white peach, and subtle hints of muscat grape. The palate is soft and approachable with moderate acidity, offering a light to medium body that's refreshingly easy-drinking. Some versions show a pleasant herbal quality with touches of fresh grass or lemon balm.
This versatile wine pairs beautifully with lighter fare: asparagus dishes, fresh goat cheese salads, grilled white fish, Asian cuisine (especially Thai and Vietnamese), and traditional German sausages. It's also perfect as an aperitif on warm afternoons when you want something refreshing without overwhelming complexity.
Müller-Thurgau production around the world
Here's the list of the top 4 producers of Müller-Thurgau worldwide.
GermanyRheinhessen, Baden, Palatinate, Franconia, Mosel
10 738 haAustriaNiederösterreich, Burgenland, Styria, Vienna
2 874 haCzech RepublicMoravian Highlands, Central Bohemia
850 haSwitzerlandThurgau, Valais, Geneva
650 haIf you like this grape variety...
Keep reading and discover other grape varieties.
Grape variety fact sheet
Origin
Switzerland
