Germany Flashcards
What is the meaning of “Prädikatswein” in German wine classification?
“Prädikatswein” is a Category within Qualitaetswein, further classified based on ripeness levels.
Where is the Mosel located, what important Villages are there?
The Mosel wine region is situated from the French border along the Mosel river to the Rhine. The best vineyards are on steep slopes with slate soil close to the river. The most famous Villages are Bernkastel, Piesport and Wehlen
What grape variety is prominent in the Mosel region?
Riesling is the primary grape variety in the Mosel region.l Here often lighter in body, has lower alcohol content, higher acidity, and exhibits floral and green fruit notes. In cold years, the grapes are used for sparkling wine.
Where is the Nahe wine region located, what are notable Villages?
The Nahe wine region is situated between the Mosel and Rheinhessen, along the river Nahe. It has south-facing slopes and a slightly warmer climate. Best Areas lie around Schlossboeckelheim
How would you characterize the style of wines in Nahe compared to other regions?
The style of wines in Nahe sits between Mosel and the fuller-bodied wines from Pfalz, Rheingau, and Rheinhessen. Rieslings have pronounced acidity and slightly riper fruit character.
Where is the Rheingau wine region located, and what are two significant villages within this region?
The Rheingau wine region is located on the north bank of the Rhine/Main. Two significant villages in this region are Johannisberg and Rüdesheim.
What grape varieties are notable in Rheingau?
Riesling is the primary grape variety, but excellent Spätburgunder can also be found.
How does the climate of Rheingau affect the wine production?
The Rheingau region experiences a rain shadow effect, leading to a drier climate. This, combined with humid conditions, allows for the production of medium to full-bodied Rieslings. In the east around Hochheim, the climate is slightly warmer, resulting in even riper grapes.
Where is the Rheinhessen wine region located, and what is a significant village within this region?
The Rheinhessen wine region is the largest growing region in Germany, with steeply sloping vineyards on the west bank of the Rhine around Nierstein.
What is noteworthy about the plantings in Rheinhessen?
Rheinhessen has a broad range of plantings, including Riesling, Mueller-Thurgau, Dornfelder, Spätburgunder, and Portugieser. It is also considered a center of innovation.
Where is the Pfalz wine region located, and what are two significant villages within this region?
The Pfalz wine region is located east of the Haardt/Vosges Mountains. Two significant villages in this region are Forst and Diedesheim.
How would you describe the climate of Pfalz?
Pfalz is known for being Germany’s driest region. Vines can experience water stress, leading to ripe, fuller-bodied Rieslings.
Where is the Baden wine region located, and what is a significant area within this region?
Baden is the warmest and southernmost wine region in Germany, close to the Swiss border. The Kaiserstuhl, a former volcano, is a significant area for vineyards.
What are the prominent grape varieties in Baden?
Baden is known for producing top-quality Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), along with Mueller-Thurgau and Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc). The wines from this region are generally the fullest-bodied in Germany.
What is the primary grape variety associated with the Franken wine region, and what are its characteristics?
The primary grape variety in Franken is Silvaner. Silvaner is known for flowering and ripening early. Wines from this grape tend to be dry, rich, and have an earthy character.