Pfalz

The Pfalz region of Germany lies between France (on the south and west) and the Rheinhessen on the north. Pfalz's name comes from "palast", which means palace. Its origins are in the Latin ""palatium" which gave rise to the term Palatinate, which is often used when speaking about the Pfalz. The soils of Pfalz produce more wine than any other German viticultural district. The soils range from clay and marl in the north to chalk, clay and loess in the south. In the northern half of Pfalz are found some of its best vineyards. Of note are the vineyards found near the villages of Deidesheim, Forst, Ruppertsberg and Wachenheim, which are best known for their full-bodied Rieslings. Müller-Thurgau, Kerner, Silvaner and Morio-Muskat grapes produce pleasant but richly bouqueted wines. The southern vineyards produce wines that are fresh and intense. Not limited to white wines, Pfalz also produces smooth, fruity red wines made mostly from the Portugieser grape.