The bishops of Mainz promoted the cultivation of vineyards in the Rheingau region since the 8th century, first focused on the monasteries Eberbach Abbey and Johannisberg.

The most prominent building is the Gothic church of St. Antonius [de], built from 1468 to 1491.

In 1803 Rauenthal became part of Nassau-Usingen and belonged then to the Amt Eltville [de].

After the annexion by the Prussians the town became part of the Rheingaukreis [de] in the Regierungsbezirk Wiesbaden in 1867.

In 1977, the Gebietsreform in Hessen [de], Rauenthal (Rheingau) became part of Eltville on 1 January 1977 together with other towns.