The 3 major red varieties in Germany
Here is an overview of the major German varieties of red grapes.
German red wines are refreshing, often light, and show more fruit than tannins.
They are a specialty and usually consumed after ageing in bottle.
Spätburgunder
(Pinot noir) is the Riesling’s red counterpart (7% of the total vineyard area), producing elegant, distinctive wines. Its small grapes ripen late. It originally came from the French province of Burgundy.
Wine: velvety, full-bodied, with hints of almonds.
Portugieser
Originally came from the Danube Valley in Austria (not Portugal). It ripens early (4%).
Wine: flavourful, light, mild; very pleasant, easy-going wine.
Trollinger
Grows almost exclusively in Württemberg (2%) and probably originated in Tyrol. It ripens very late.
Wine: fragrant, fresh, fruity, good acidity, hearty.
As a complement you can read the article on the German wine regions.
In a month I’ll post an overview of the German white varieties. Your feed reader will show this if you subscribe to the blog.Cellarer feed 
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Tags: acidity, almonds, distinctive wines, german varieties, grapes, pinot noir, red wines, tannins, tyrol, wurttemberg
