DE- German Pradikat Levels Flashcards
What are the German Prädikat levels in increasing order of sweetness?
Kabinett Spätlese Auslese Beerenauslese Eiswein Trockenbeerenauslese
What are the production rules for German Prädikatswein?
The grapes must come entirely from one of 40 Bereich, small areas of production that are not required to be indicated on the label. Enrichment is not permitted and any variety can be used.
How does Kabinett compare to other Prädikat categories? Why?
It is rheblightest in body and the highest in acid because it is made with grapes of the lowest permitted must weight.
What is the range of sweetness and ABV typically found in Kabinett?
They can be dry to medium-sweet with 7-12% ABV
What is the typical style of Kabinett Riesling?
Dry to medium sweet with light body, high acid, and aromas of green and citrus fruit
When are the grapes for Spätlese picked in relation to grapes for Kabinett? Why?
About two weeks later. Spätlese grapes are required to have a higher must weight.
How do Spätlese wines compare to Kabinett wines?
They have a higher concentration of aromas, riper fruit notes, slightly higher ABV at similar RS levels, and more body
What is the range of sweetness found in German Spätlese?
Dry to medium-sweet
What types of aromas do Spätlese Riesling show?
Stone fruits
What is the range of ABV permitted in German Spätlese?
Minimum 7% ABV
What types of grapes are used for German Auslese? How are they selected?
Extra ripe grapes that are selected for use in the final wine. There is no requirement for hand harvesting, so some producers harvest mechanically and hand sort in the winery.
What is the character of Auslese Riesling?
It shows very ripe flavors and often a honey character. Some of the grapes may also be affected by botrytis.
What is the range if sweetness permitted in German Auslese? What is the permitted ABV?
Dry to sweet, though many of the best are in the sweeter range with balanced acidity to permit aging. Minimum 7% ABV, which the sweeter wines can be.
How are the grapes for Beerenauslese harvested?
The wine is made from individually selected berries and must thus be harvested by hand.
What is the minimum ABV for Beerenauslese, Eiswein, and Trockenbeerenauslese? Why?
5.5%. The fermentation can be long and slow due to the high sugar levels in the grapes, often stopping on its own.