introduction
Prädikat wines are among the finest wines you can find. Especially in Germany and Austria, these wines are known for their high quality and intense flavor. But what exactly defines a Prädikat wine? In this article, we'll explain the different levels of Prädikat wines, their distinctive characteristics, and the strict criteria they must meet.
What are Prädikat wines?
Prädikat wines are a special category of quality wines classified according to their must weight—the sugar content of the grape must. These wines may not be enriched by adding sugar (chaptalization), meaning the natural sugar content of the grapes is sufficient to achieve the desired alcohol content. Prädikat wines are among the highest quality levels and are particularly well-known in Germany and Austria.
The six levels of Prädikat wines
Prädikat wines are divided into six main levels, which are ordered in ascending order according to their must weight:
-
Cabinet:
Light, fruity wines made from ripe grapes. These wines are elegant and often have a fine acid structure. -
Late harvest:
Wines made from later-harvested, riper grapes offer a more intense flavor. They are richer and often slightly sweeter than Kabinett wines. -
Choice:
Wines made from carefully selected, fully ripe grapes. These wines have a complex aroma profile and can be vinified either sweetly or dryly. -
Beerenauslese:
Sweet wines made from overripe, partially noble-rot grapes. These wines are very sweet, concentrated, and have an intense fruity aroma. -
Trockenbeerenauslese:
Very sweet, concentrated wines made from noble-rot, raisin-like grapes. These wines are extremely rich and can age for decades. -
Ice wine:
Wines made from frozen grapes harvested and pressed at temperatures below -7°C. This method produces a very sweet, concentrated must, resulting in exquisite wines.
No sugar enrichment
A key difference between Prädikat wines and other quality wines is the prohibition on added sugar. Prädikat wines must achieve their desired alcohol content solely through the natural sugar content of the grapes. This regulation ensures that the wines retain their character and natural sweetness.
Regional specifications
Prädikat wines must come from designated wine-growing regions and meet strict production standards. Germany has 13 official wine-growing regions, including the Mosel, Rheingau, and Palatinate. The grapes for Prädikat wines must come from these regions to be eligible for the designation.
Special harvest conditions
Some Prädikat levels require specific harvesting conditions. For example, the grapes for Eiswein may only be harvested at certain temperatures, while Trockenbeerenauslese wines require grapes affected by the noble rot, Botrytis cinerea. These special conditions contribute to the high quality and uniqueness of the wines.
Conclusion
Prädikat wines are among the highest quality wines on the market. They are characterized by their exceptional sweetness, complexity, and ageability. The strict criteria and careful grape selection make these wines a special delicacy for wine lovers. Whether Kabinett, Spätlese, or Trockenbeerenauslese – each level offers a unique taste experience that reflects the quality and tradition of winemaking in Germany and Austria.
Have you ever tried Prädikat wines? Share your experiences with us in the comments!