White German wine

German white wine is among the most expressive and refined white wines in the world. Thanks to the cool climate, steep river valleys, and mineral-rich soils, German wines deliver a unique combination of aromatic precision, crisp acidity, and elegance. Riesling is the absolute star, but Weissburgunder, Grauburgunder, and Silvaner have also built a strong reputation for their balance and purity.

What is white German wine?

White German wine encompasses all white wines produced in Germany, from crisply dry to richly sweet. Riesling, in particular, stands out for its aromatic clarity and ability to carry all styles. In addition, Weissburgunder, Grauburgunder, and Silvaner have become important grapes thanks to their fresh, gourmet character. German white wine is known for its purity, vibrant acidity, and a pronounced mineral structure.

Origin and vineyards

German vineyards are often located along rivers such as the Mosel or the Rhine, where steep slopes and reflection of sunlight allow for optimal ripening.

Important regions for white wine:

• Moselle
• Rheingau
• Rhine Hesse
• Palatinate
• Franks

Terroir characteristics that define white German wine:

• Cool climate that allows aromas to develop while preserving acidity
• Slate in the Mosel for minerality and tension
• Calcareous soils in the Palatinate and Rheinhessen for rounder styles
• Height differences that enhance the freshness
• River reflection that provides extra light and warmth

Styles and vinification

Dry styles (Trocken)

• Tight, fresh and mineral
• Perfect for modern gastronomic use

Fine-herb & semi-dry

• Light sweetness
• Nice balance with lively acidity

Sweeter styles

• Cabinet – elegant, light-footed
• Spätlese – riper, more concentrated
• Auslese – richer and complex
• Beerenauslese & Eiswein – intense and rare

Main grape varieties:
• Riesling – citrus, apple, peach, minerality
• Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc) – fresh and elegant
• Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris) – slightly fuller and creamier
• Silvaner – pure, subtle and gastronomic

Why are German white wines so aromatic and fresh? The grapes ripen slowly in a cool climate, allowing the aromas to fully develop while the acidity remains firm.

Storage and serving

• Dry Riesling: 3–8 years
• Spätlese & Auslese: 10–20+ years
• Weissburgunder & Grauburgunder: 2–5 years
• Silvaner: 2–4 years

Serving temperature:
• 8–10 degrees for dry styles
• 6–8 degrees for sweeter varieties

Buy white German wine at Perfectewijn.nl

At Perfecte Wijn, you'll find a wide selection of German white wines, from crisp Mosel Riesling to elegant Pinot Blanc and modern Grauburgunder. Each wine is selected for purity, freshness, and character, so you're sure to find a style that suits your taste.