German wine regions (II) - Nahe, Pfalz and Baden

Today let’s have a look at another three key wine regions in Germany.

The Nahe Valley

This region gets its name from the river Nahe, which joins the river Rhine at the north.

One of the most distinctive features of this region lies in the diversity of soil—even a single vineyard can contain several different soil types. The geographic complexity is reflected in the grapes, producing wines, namely Rieslings, of extraordinary finesse and delicacy.

World-class Rieslings can be found in the south and west part of the region, especially the steepest slopes on the north bank of the river Nahe between Monzingen and Bad Kreüznach.

In addition to Riesling, Müller-Thurgau and Silvaner are also widely planted, making acceptable wines of less complexity.

Pfalz

Pfalz is situated to the north of the French border, close to Alsace. It is a comparatively warm region, and is one of the most productive regions in Germany, thanks to the widely planted Müller-Thurgau.

The sufficient sunshine in Pfalz adds extra ripeness and distinctive spice to its wines. Traditionally wines produced in Pfalz are dry and rich. Riesling is not necessarily the king in this region. Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder) and Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) can also produce outstanding white wines. Red grapes are widely planted here, among which Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder) and Cabernet Sauvignon are responsible for some excellent German reds.

Baden

This is the longest, warmest and most southerly wine region in Germany, typically known for producing dry, powerful and ripe wines.

Due to the warm weather, Riesling (known locally as Klingelberger) is less common than Müller-Thurgau, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir. The oak-aged, highly fashionable Pinot Noirs produced in Kaiserstuhl are especially known for their fruitiness and richness.