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Apart from the urban centers of Stuttgart and Heilbronn, Württemberg is a rural, hilly
countryside with vineyards and orchards scattered amidst forests and fields. Most of the
terraced vineyards of the past have been reorganized to improve efficiency. However, a number
still exist, notably the so-called "cliff gardens" near the Neckar's scenic loops between
Besigheim and Mundelsheim. With more than half of its vineyards planted with red wine
varieties, Württemberg ranks as Germany's premier red wine region. The main variety is
Trollinger, seldom found outside of this region, followed by Schwarzriesling, also known as
Müllerrebe or Pinot Meunier, and Lemberger. An additional 919 ha / 2,270 acres are planted
with Spätburgunder, Dornfelder and Portugieser. Much of the wine is light, fruity and easy to
enjoy; but deep-colored, rich, full-bodied red wine with great class is also produced here.
Riesling is an important variety in Württemberg, accounting for nearly a quarter of the
vineyard area, followed by Kerner and Müller-Thurgau. Kerner, a crossing of Trollinger and
Riesling, was bred at the region's oenological research and teaching institute in Weinsberg.
In general, the wines are hearty and full-bodied, with a vigorous acidity.
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