Scheurebe

Scheurebe is a captivating German white grape variety that has found a surprising and successful home in UK vineyards. Created in 1916 by Dr. Georg Scheu in Rhineland-Palatinate, this crossings of Riesling and Silvaner combines the best qualities of both parent varieties, producing wines of remarkable aromatic complexity and structure that translate beautifully to English soil and climate.

In the UK, Scheurebe is cultivated by just two dedicated vineyards, strategically located in the South East and Wales regions where the maritime climate provides the moderate warmth and extended growing season this variety requires. These pioneering English wine producers have recognised Scheurebe's potential to produce distinctive still and sparkling wines that stand apart from more common English varieties, offering wine enthusiasts something truly special and different to explore.

English Scheurebe wines typically display an enticing aromatic profile characterised by vibrant notes of ripe blackcurrant, zesty grapefruit, and tropical fruits, complemented by subtle floral undertones and a distinctive spiciness. The variety produces wines with refreshing acidity balanced by generous fruit weight, creating a harmonious style that pairs excellently with contemporary cuisine and appeals to palates seeking something beyond traditional English wine varieties.

The grape performs particularly well in Britain's cooler growing conditions, developing its characteristic aromatic intensity without requiring the sustained high temperatures that challenge other varieties. UK winemakers often craft Scheurebe in a Germanic-inspired style, ranging from crisp, unoaked expressions through to richer, more concentrated wines with partial botrytis influence, creating a spectrum of styles that showcase the variety's versatility.

Two UK Scheurebe vineyards welcome visitors for tastings and tours, offering the opportunity to discover this distinctive aromatic variety firsthand. While none currently practise organic or biodynamic viticulture, both estates maintain meticulous vineyard management to ensure healthy, quality fruit production. For those seeking to expand their English wine horizons beyond the familiar Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varieties, a visit to an English Scheurebe vineyard promises a rewarding and memorable tasting experience that highlights the growing diversity and ambition of UK viticulture.