Dornfelder

Dornfelder is a dark-skinned variety of grape used for red wine. It was created by August Herold (1902–1973) at the grape breeding institute in Weinsberg in the Württemberg region in 1955. Herold crossed the grape varieties Helfensteiner and Heroldrebe, the latter which bears his name, to create Dornfelder.

History

The Dornfelder grape was named in honor of Immanuel August Ludwig Dornfeld, a 19th-century founder and benefactor of Weinsberg's viticultural college. The grape was initially bred for its color, as German red wines were traditionally light in color. However, Dornfelder has proven to be capable of producing wines of great depth and character, and has become the second most popular red wine grape in Germany.

Viticulture

Dornfelder has a natural high tannin content and is known for its deep color. The grape is often used in blends to improve the color of lighter red wines. However, it is also capable of producing varietal wines of high quality, particularly when aged in oak. Dornfelder wines are typically rich and velvety, with a fruity, plummy character.

Distribution and Wines

While Dornfelder is most commonly grown in Germany, it is also found in other wine regions around the world, including the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada, and the United States. In Germany, it is particularly associated with the Rheinhessen and Pfalz regions.

Synonyms

Dornfelder is also known under its breeding code, Weinsberg S 341.

See Also

• List of grape varieties
• German wine
• Viticulture