Prädikatswein

Prädikatswein is a category of German wine that denotes quality based on the ripeness of the grapes at the time of harvest. The term "Prädikat" translates to "predicate" or "attribute," signifying a specific quality. These wines are characterized by their natural sweetness and are not allowed to be chaptalized, meaning sugar cannot be added during fermentation to increase alcohol content. The ripeness levels are defined by specific must weights, measured in degrees Oechsle, which vary depending on the wine region and the specific Prädikat.

There are six distinct Prädikate, listed in ascending order of must weight: Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese, Eiswein, and Trockenbeerenauslese. Kabinett wines are made from normally ripened grapes. Spätlese wines come from grapes harvested at least seven days after the main harvest, indicating a higher sugar content. Auslese wines are made from selectively hand-picked, very ripe grape bunches. Beerenauslese wines are produced from individually selected, overripe berries, often affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea). Eiswein is made from grapes that have frozen on the vine, concentrating their sugars and flavors. Trockenbeerenauslese, the highest category, consists of individually selected, shriveled overripe berries, also affected by noble rot, resulting in exceptionally concentrated and sweet wines. Each Prädikat represents a distinct style and sweetness level, offering a spectrum of German wine experiences.