The variety's official name is Müller-Thurgau, but the name Rizingszilváni is widespread in Hungary as it was once believed to be a crossing of Riesling and Silvaner (Zöldszilváni in Hungary). So, in Germany, you might even come across the name Rivaner. However, recent research has proved that is the result of a crossing between Riesling and Madeleine Royale. Hermann Müller from the Swiss canton of Thurgau produced the variety in Geisenheim in 1882. Hence the modern name, which pay homage to the breeder and his homeland.
It is an international variety that is one of the key varieties in its German homeland, where it is cultivated on 13% of the vineyard area. It can be found all over Europe and was even the main variety in New Zealand until the early 1980s. It makes up 4% of Austrian vineyards and is mainly used for blends and light new wines, for example in Styria.
It was widespread in Hungary at the beginning of the 20th century, and although there were still 3,200 hectares at the beginning of the 21st century, there are now only 1,560 hectares of it left in Hungary. It can be found in almost all wine regions in varying quantities. There is most in the Mátra wine district, where almost every tenth vine is Müller-Thurgau.
It usually produces light white wines. It is rare to find it on its own, as it is more generally used in blends. When young, it is characterised by a pale lemon yellow colour with delicate notes of aromatic grape blossom and green apple as well as aromas reminiscent of wet hay. It is light-bodied with low alcohol and soft, medium acidity. These are simple wines designed for early consumption.