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HomeTopicsWine Regions And AreasWines Of Germany
German Vineyards and German WinesThe ancient Romans began cultivating grapes in Germany when they conquered the area in about 100 B.C. The monks of the Middle Ages were also German winemakers, and their tradition of excellent winemaking continues to the present day. Germany is well known for producing exceedingly light, delicate white wines.
White Wines of GermanyThe white wine grapes of Germany comprise approximately 81 percent of the total grapes planted. The white wines of Germany include:
Red Wines of GermanyOnly 19 percent of the total grapes planted in the wine regions of Germany are red wine grapes. This is contrary to the rest of the world, where red wine grapes outnumber white wine grapes.
The red wines in Germany include:
Most of the red wines in Germany are for local consumption. Few of them are exported to other areas.
Wine Regions in GermanyThe wine regions of Germany are located in the southwestern part of the country. Most of the German vineyards are located on steep slopes instead of in valleys and most are in close proximity to a river to add humidity and help keep the climate even and temperate.
While many geographical factors influence the individual vineyards and, therefore, the taste of the grapes, the wine regions in Germany continue to offer the world some of the most sought-after wines.
The wine regions in Germany include:
The grapes in Germany are harvested in October and November, due to the moderate climate, which allows the ripening process to continue for longer than in other wine regions. However, the Germans practice selective harvesting, which means they harvest grapes at different stages of ripeness. This harvesting practice plays into the quality of the wine and should be taken into consideration when purchasing German wines.
The ripeness of the grapes in the wine is indicated by one of two categories:
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