German wine - wine basics
VDP = The Verband Deutscher Prädikats- und Qualitätsweingüter e.V.
VDP is dedicated to making wines of the highest quality... wines which reflect the distinctive character of their German origin and grape variety. Its 200 member wine estates which represent approximately three percent of the entire German viticultural area from nearly all of Germany's wine growing regions share a long tradition of excellence in winemaking.
The wines of the 200 Prädikat Wine Estates are marked by a symbol of finest wine culture, the stylized eagle bearing a cluster of grapes. This and the name of the grower on every bottle guarantee refined wine pleasure.
CHARTER FOR THE GERMANS AMONG THE FINEST WINES OF THE WORLD.
WE STRIVE FOR WINES OF THE HIGHEST QUALITY
We produce top-quality wines that number among the finest wines of the world. The combination of traditional grape varieties, unique vineyard sites and passionate growers yields wines of genuine character.
WE CULTIVATE THE BEST VINEYARD SITES
For the quality of our wines, origin is a decisive factor – our vineyard sites. Vineyard quality is determined by the soil, topography, climate and microclimate. Our vineyard classification provides orientation, so that outstanding quality can be recognized.
WE PRODUCE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE
We are the guardians of a unique cultural landscape. After all, uncontaminated, fertile soil is a grower’s most precious asset. Where butterflies, orchids and St. Bernard’s lilies thrive, nature is intact.
WE CULTIVATE TRADITIONAL GRAPE VARIETIES
More than half of our joint vineyard area is devoted to Riesling. Silvaner, as well as Pinot varieties, are also expressions of our individual terroirs. The older the vine, the deeper the roots and the higher the quality.
WE LIMIT YIELDS
We rigorously prune our vines. We conscientiously opt for quality rather than quantity to achieve loose clusters and concentrated, mineral-rich wines.
WE ARE COMMITTED TO TRADITION
We are the oldest association of wine-growers in the world. Our estates and experience with wine have been handed down from generation to generation. Without compromising our commitment to tradition, we are innovators in shaping the future.
WE HANDLE OUR WINES WITH SENSITIVITY
Great wines develop from gently processed grapes that are vinified and matured in cool cellars. Here, the winemaker gives his wine the final touch that brings forth a wine with a unique character.
WE STAND FOR STYLE AND PERSONALITY
The growers in The Prädikat Wine Estates pursue individualistic, diverse lifestyles, yet they remain down to earth. We view ourselves as craftsmen and artists that help viticulture develop into wine culture.
WE HAVE EVERYTHING AT HAND
Palaces, castles, idyllic gems as well as futuristic buildings serve as our production sites and our wines as a stage for high-caliber events. Because we have everything at hand, we are able to guarantee quality from the vineyard to the glass.
With our names, The Prädikat Wine Estates have guaranteed utmost quality for more than 100 years. Potential members in the “First League” of German viticulture are put through their paces before being accepted for membership. Every five years, estates are put to the test again. The stylized eagle bearing a cluster of grapes signifies controlled quality.