Introduction to German Wine
Germany is known for its rich culture and history, but few people know that it also has a long and varied history of winemaking. Germany’s cool climate and diverse soils create a variety of unique advantages when it comes to creating wines of unparalleled complexity. From Riesling and Pinot Noir to other unique varietals, explore the fascinating world of German wines and discover something new.
In this article, you’ll learn about the history of German wine, the different types of German wines and their regions and styles, as well as tasting and pairing tips for both Riesling and Pinot Noir. So, let’s get started and explore the wonderful wines of Germany!
History of German Wine
Germany has a long and distinguished history of winemaking that dates back to ancient Roman times. The Romans were the first to cultivate vineyards in the Rhine region of Germany, and wine has been produced in the country for over 2,000 years. Throughout the centuries, German wine production has been characterized by diverse styles and grape varieties. Currently, Germany produces a wide variety of white and red wines, with Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Müller-Thurgau among the most notable grapes grown in the region. Although the German wine industry has experienced a series of challenges throughout the years due to changing tastes, wine production in Germany continues to be a thriving and influential force.
Types of German Wine
Germany is renowned for its wide variety of wines, producing some of the finest vintages around. While the country offers a selection of white, red, rosé, and sparkling wines, the most unique and celebrated varieties come from its vineyards. Popular types of German wine to sample include Riesling, Pinot Noir, Muller-Thurgau, and Gewürztraminer.
Riesling is the most popular and recognizable type of German wine. It is a white wine known for its subtle sweetness and crisp, fruity flavors. It is produced across a wide range of styles, ranging from dry to semi-sweet and late harvest, making it a versatile and interesting variety.
Pinot Noir is also commonly grown in Germany, though it is much less sweet than Riesling. It has a full body and complex aroma, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and plum. Pinot Noir is well balanced and can be enjoyed both young and aged.
Muller-Thurgau and Gewurztraminer are two aromatic white wines that are great for those who prefer a semi-sweet flavor profile. Muller-Thurgau has rounded fruit and floral notes, while Gewurztraminer has an intense floral character. Both wines are unique and often overlooked gems.
Riesling
is one of the most widely recognized German wines. It is characterized by its light, crisp taste and fruity aroma. Riesling can range in color from pale yellow to light green and is usually dry, although some sweeter versions are available. Riesling grapes are usually grown in areas with mild temperatures and good sunlight and are harvested early in the season, before the full ripening process. Riesling wines are typically low in acidity, with a characteristic floral flavor. Because of its lightness, Riesling pairs well with a variety of dishes, including spicy foods and seafood.
Regions and Styles of Riesling
Riesling is the preeminent white grape of Germany, grown in many different regions from north to south. The unique terroir found in each region imparts distinct characteristics to the wines.
In the Mosel Valley, Riesling displays bright, fruit-driven flavors and delicate aromatics. In the Nahe region, the acidity is higher, giving wines a refreshing minerality. In the Rheinhessen area, the wines take on a richer, rounder texture.
Rieslings range in style from dry to sweet, with varying levels of alcohol. Dry Rieslings feature crisp acidity, herbal and citrus flavors, and a light body. Sweet Rieslings feature intense aromas of apricot, honey, and peach, but they do not have an overly sweet taste; they are balanced by the grape’s natural acidity. The level of sweetness is indicated on the bottle, with “Kabinett” being the lightest and “Beerenauslese” the sweetest.
Tasting and Pairing Tips for Riesling
Riesling is one of the most iconic German wines, known for its crisp, acidic finish and subtle fruity flavors. To properly taste and pair Riesling, take into account the wine’s characteristics.
The sweetness of Riesling can vary, so it’s important to select the right type for your meal. A dry Riesling pairs best with light, subtly flavored dishes, whereas a sweeter variety should be served alongside richer fare such as pork, poultry, and shellfish. To further enhance the flavors, try pairing Riesling with foods that have a similar acidity, such as certain fruits or vegetables.
When drinking Riesling, pay attention to the wine’s aromas and flavors. The most common aromas are stone fruit, green apple, honey, and petrol. On the palate, you’ll likely taste citrus, peach, and apricot. Paired with the right food, these flavors can truly shine.
Finally, don’t forget to serve Riesling at the right temperature. For dry varieties, keep your bottles in the refrigerator to ensure they remain chilled. Sweeter Rieslings should be served slightly warmer to bring out their aromas.
Pinot Noir
is an important grape variety grown in Germany. Generally speaking, it is used to produce light-bodied red wines with a high acidity and low tannin levels. German Pinot Noir wines are usually produced in the cool climate regions of the country, such as along the Mosel and Rhine rivers, where the grapes can fully ripen. The result is a light yet complex and aromatic Pinot Noir wine that expresses its place of origin. Flavor notes include red berries and herbal notes. While Germany is not the traditional place of origin for this variety, it is nonetheless an interesting place to explore it.
Regions and Styles of Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a difficult and finicky grape variety, requiring skill and expertise in order to bring out its unique range of flavors and nuances. In Germany, Pinot Noir is known as “Spätburgunder” and is grown in various regions throughout the country, each with its own characteristic terroir and style. In the warm southern Pfalz region, Pinot Noir often has riper and rounder flavors with soft tannins, while in cooler northern climates, such as the Ahr region, the wines tend to be lighter and more elegant. German Pinot Noir is often noted for its fruity nose with notes of cherry and plum, as well as undertones of smoke and game.
Tasting and Pairing Tips for Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is one of the most versatile varieties of German wine. Its light body and subtle flavors make it ideal for pairing with lighter foods such as salads, raw fish, poultry, and white meat. For a truly delicious experience, try pairing Pinot Noir with pork or game dishes, as the robust flavors will complement each other and create a unique flavor profile. When tasting Pinot Noir, look for flavors of cherry and raspberry with a hint of spice, and a light, smooth finish. Serve it lightly chilled, as this can enhance the aromatics and add to the overall complexity.
Other Popular German Wines
Germany is a popular destination for wine lovers, featuring a wide variety of varietals ranging from Riesling and Pinot Noir to lesser known varieties such as Blauer Portugieser and Spätburgunder. Other popular German wines include Silvaner, Müller-Thurgau, Kerner, and Dornfelder. These wines are known for their bright and fruity flavors and are often used in dessert wines. Silvaner is a light and crisp wine with notes of lemon and green apple, while Müller-Thurgau tends to be more full-bodied and fruity with flavors of ripe peach and apricot. Kerner is lighter, with herbal and floral aromas and a pleasant acidity, while Dornfelder is a dark red with spicy notes of red berries and chocolate. These German wines offer an enjoyable experience for wine lovers of all levels.
