Understanding Grosses Gewächs: Germany's Grand Cru Wines 

The Significance of Grosses Gewächs

The Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP), an invitation-only association of around 200 of Germany’s top winemakers, established the Grosses Gewächs designation to highlight the highest quality dry wines from the country's premier vineyard sites. Unlike the broader German wine law, this classification focuses on the vineyard's terroir and the producer's adherence to stringent quality standards.

Criteria for Grosses Gewächs

To achieve the GG designation, wines must meet several rigorous criteria:

- Hand-Harvest: Grapes must be hand-picked to ensure only the best fruits are used.

- Yield Restrictions: Yields must not exceed 50 hectoliters per hectare.

- Fully Ripe Grapes: Only physiologically fully ripe grapes are used.

- Traditional Methods: Wines must be made using traditional vinification methods.

- Quality Control: Wines are tasted and approved by local VDP members before being labeled as GG.

The Vineyards: Grosses Lage

Grosses Gewächs wines originate from Grosses Lage vineyards (equivalent to Grand Cru), recognized for their exceptional terroir. These sites are meticulously selected for their ability to produce grapes of outstanding quality, reflecting the unique characteristics of their location. This classification ensures that the wines are true expressions of their vineyard's terroir.

Related Concepts

When discussing Grosses Gewächs, it's essential to understand related terms and concepts:

- German Wine Law: Although GG is not a part of the official German wine law, it is highly respected within the industry.

- Hand-Harvest: The meticulous process of hand-picking grapes is crucial for quality.

- Dry Wines: Grosses Gewächs wines are predominantly dry, with residual sugar levels below 9g/l.

- VDP is an Invitation: Membership in the VDP is by invitation only, ensuring that only the best producers are included.

- Grape Variety: While Riesling is the most common grape, other varieties like Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) are also used.

- Grand Cru Vineyard: Grosses Lage is the German equivalent of France's Grand Cru classification.

Why Grosses Gewächs?

A bottle of Grosses Gewächs wine represents the unyielding and disciplined culture of German winemaking. These wines offer complexity, balance, and the potential for aging, making them a prized possession for wine enthusiasts.

Available in Hong Kong

We are proud to offer a curated selection of Grosses Gewächs wines right here in Hong Kong. Our shop provides access to these exceptional wines, allowing wine lovers to experience the best of German winemaking.

Explore Lyndhurst Wine's GG Products! 

Here are some of the exquisite Grosses Gewächs wines available at our Hong Kong shop:

1. Robert Weil Kiedrich Grafenberg Riesling Grosses Gewächs 2021

  - Vineyard: Robert Weil

  - Grape Variety: Riesling

  - Description: Kiedrich Gräfenberg Riesling Trocken GG has received high praise from critics, reflecting its exceptional quality and aging potential. Scoring 96 points, James Suckling highlights its bouquet of stone fruits, Amalfi lemon, and bergamot, noting its richness and precise, cool nature.

2. Dr. Wehrheim Riesling Kastanienbusch Grosses Gewächs 2022

  - Vineyard: Dr. Wehrheim

  - Grape Variety: Riesling

  - Description: This is a multifaceted Riesling. The herbal nose is typical of the Rotliegende. The aromatics are complemented by citrus aromas like lemon or mandarin. On the palate, the wine has a lot of grip and appears very concentrated. The sweetness and acidity are perfectly balanced.

3.Schloss Johannisberg Silberlack Grosses Gewachs Riesling 2020

  - Vineyard: Schloss Johannisberg

  - Grape Variety: Riesling

  - Description:  Deep lemon yellow in colour this wine shows complex aromas of mellow apricot and quince, complemented by pear, white floral notes, a hint of smoky minerality and an elegant spiciness in the background. Concentrated on the palate, with a mouthwatering acidity and a long, clean finish.

For further reading and to explore some of the best Grosses Gewächs wines available, consider visiting these recommended sites:

- First Bottle Wines

- Balthasar Ress

Grosses Gewächs wines stand as a testament to Germany’s dedication to producing world-class dry wines. With strict quality controls and a focus on the best vineyard sites, these wines are a true reflection of the country’s rich winemaking heritage. Visit our shop in Hong Kong to explore these exquisite wines and elevate your wine collection.