Exploring the Sweetest German Riesling: Eiswein and Trockenbeerenauslese

German Riesling wines are renowned for their delightful balance of acidity and sweetness, making them a popular choice among wine enthusiasts. Two of the most celebrated categories of Riesling are Eiswein and Trockenbeerenauslese. These premium wines are revered not just for their exceptional sweetness, but also for their unique production methods and flavors.

Understanding German Wine Classification

The classification of German wines is based on the sugar content in the grape juice, with the term "Qualittswein" referring to wines that can have added sugar, and "Prdikatswein" indicating a higher quality that does not allow for added sugar. Within the Prdikatswein category, the sweetness levels are categorized as follows:

Kabinett: Lightly sweet Sptlese: Slightly sweeter Auslese: Moderately sweet Beerenauslese: Very sweet Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA): Extremely sweet Eiswein: The sweetest of all, made from ice-affected grapes

The higher up the scale you go, the more expensive the wine, as the grapes must be more carefully selected and harvested later, leading to a higher concentration of sugar.

The Delicacy of Eiswein

Eiswein is the sweetest of the Riesling categories, widely regarded as a dessert wine. This unique addition to the Riesling family is made from grapes harvested and pressed at temperatures below -7°C or 19°F. The process ensures that the grape juice is concentrated, often reaching up to 250 degrees Oechsle—a measurement of the sugar content of the wine before fermentation.

Eiswein is typically sold in small bottles of 0.375 liters, around 12.7 ounces. Prices for this luxurious wine can range from $100 and upwards, especially when imported to the United States. The distinctive flavor profile of Eiswein is a testament to the expertise and craftsmanship required in its production, offering a complex blend of fruit and minerality.

The Distinctiveness of Trockenbeeranauslese

Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) is another incredibly sweet Riesling category, often considered the counterpart to Eiswein. TBA wines are made from individually selected, shriveled grapes that have undergone a process called noble rot, or Botrytis cinerea infection, which concentrates the sugars in the grapes.

The selective picking of these super-sweet berries results in a wine that is not only sweet but also has a distinct, intense flavor profile. Prices for TBA Riesling wines are often significantly higher compared to Eiswein, reflecting the meticulousness and rarity of their production.

While Eiswein and TBA Riesling are celebrated German wines, it's worth noting that the French equivalent, Sauternes, does not always use the same Riesling grape varieties. For instance, vintage bottles of Chateau d’Yquem Sauternes can cost upwards of $4,000, underscoring the exceptional quality and rarity of these wines.

Whether you prefer the complex, concentrated flavors of Eiswein or the intense sweetness of TBA Riesling, these wares offer a unique and indulgent experience in the world of premium wines.