German wines are undoubtedly noteworthy, but their classification can be a bit complex. Let's start with the basics. The simplest wines are divided into two categories: Deutscher Wein and Landwein (similar to regional wines).
From there, we have two key classifications: Qualitätswein (sometimes labeled QbA) and Prädikatswein. Wines in the Qualitätswein category are produced in one of Germany's 13 designated wine regions and can range from dry (trocken) to semi-dry (halbtrocken or feinherb).
Prädikat wines (Prädikatswein) are considered the pinnacle of German winemaking. While they are most often Rieslings, this is not always the case. Contrary to popular belief, the Prädikat level indicates the ripeness of the grapes at harvest, not the sweetness of the wine. The sweetness level is typically reflected in the alcohol content: the lower the alcohol percentage, the sweeter the wine.
Prädikat wine categories:
Kabinett – Light, fruity wines with low alcohol content, ranging from dry to semi-sweet.
Spätlese – Fuller-bodied wines that can be either dry or sweet.
Auslese – Wines made from very ripe grapes that can be either dry or sweet, sometimes with the influence of noble rot (botrytis).
Beerenauslese (BA) and Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) – Sweet wines made from grapes that are almost raisin-like and affected by botrytis. These wines are rich, honeyed, and have aromas of dried fruit.
Eiswein – ‘Ice wines’ made from grapes frozen on the vine, resulting in concentrated sweetness and acidity.
The VDP
The VDP (Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter) is an association of around 200 leading German wineries. A producer belonging to this prestigious group is recognized by the symbol of an eagle with a bunch of grapes on the neck of the bottle.
The VDP has its classification system, modeled after the Burgundian approach:
VDP. Grosse Lage (Grosses Gewächs) – The grand cru level vineyards, producing the finest GG wines.
VDP. Erste Lage – The equivalent of premier cru (though not present in every region).
VDP. Ortswein – Village-level wines that reflect the specific terroir of the commune.
VDP. Gutswein – High-quality regional wines, serving as the foundation of the VDP classification.
Here are 2 wines worth trying:
Malterdinger Spätburgunder 2014 – Bernhard Huber
A Spätburgunder from a family estate in Baden that has earned a reputation as one of the most respected in the region—and indeed, in all of Germany. This Pinot Noir offers perfect balance. In a blind tasting, you might mistake it for a high-quality Burgundy rather than a wine from Baden.
Goldenes Horn 2021 – Tomislav Markovic
A standout Chardonnay from a top-class producer in Baden. The only downside is the limited production—just around 1,000 bottles. This wine offers a cool and distinctive alternative to the Burgundy style, and is well worth seeking out.