Rotgipfler is a crossing of Traminer and Roter Veltliner, and is related to Grüner Veltliner (hence its synonym Weißgipfler). Likewise with Zierfandler, Rotgipfler is a speciality found virtually only in the Thermenregion.
Origin
probably Thermenregion, Austria
Parentage
Natural crossing of Traminer x Roter Veltliner
Vineyard area
119 ha, 0.3%
Parentage: This autochthonous variety is related to Weißgipfler (synonym for Grüner Veltliner).
Vineyard area: Found almost solely in the Thermenregion. Its cultivation is decreasing.
Important ampelographic features:
Leaf: medium-sized; circular; five to seven lobes; veins are red; deeply lobed. A key characteristic: reddish-bronze vine shoots (thus the name Rotgipfler)
Grape cluster: medium to large; very compact juicy berries; conical; greenish yellow colour.
Ripening time: mid to late season
Significance, conditions: Only in the Thermenregion can appropriate growing conditions from climate and soil be found. Warm south-facing vineyard sites with good calcareous-based soils are necessary, otherwise shoot growth diminishes significantly. Good vigorous sites bring consistently high yields.
Wine: With strong yield limitation, the wine shows a high extract content, pleasant acidity and a fine bouquet. It tends to age slowly and is usually blended with the Zierfandler variety.