Dark grapes hanging on the vine in sunlight

Wines and Grape Varieties in Baden-Württemberg

Red, White and More at a Glance

13.10.20268 min. read timeby Hirsch & Greif

An overview of Baden-Württemberg’s key grape varieties, from Trollinger to Riesling – including their character, aromas and quality classifications.

Typical Grape Varieties from Baden and Württemberg

Every Vine Tells the Story of Its Origins and Terroir

Across some 25,800 hectares of vineyards in Baden-Württemberg’s Weinsüden, more than 20 grape varieties thrive – from Trollinger, Württemberg’s classic red, to Riesling, the ‘queen of white wines’. Each grape variety has its own distinctive character, shaped by the climate, soil and vineyard location. Whether volcanic soils on the Kaiserstuhl, shell limestone in the Remstal or sun-drenched slopes along the Neckar, the terroir gives each wine its unique expression.This rich diversity makes Baden-Württemberg one of Germany’s most varied wine regions, with something to suit almost every taste. This guide provides an overview of the most important wine styles, grape varieties and quality classifications in the Weinsüden.

Two people harvesting grapes in the sunshine.

Where Grapes Develop Character

Among Vines and Autumn Sunshine, Every Grape Variety Has a Story to Tell.

Key Facts About Wine and Grape Varieties

At a Glance

More than 20 grape varieties, one region:

From classics such as Riesling and Pinot varieties to rarities including Samtrot and Muskat-Trollinger.

The Wine Regions of Baden and Württemberg

Württemberg is red wine country, with more than 65% of its vineyards planted with red grape varieties, while Baden is known for white wines and Pinot Noir.

The New Origin-Based Classification System

Six quality levels and a new origin-based classification determine what appears on the label. The more precisely a wine’s geographical origin is defined – from the wine-growing region to the individual vineyard – the higher its quality promise.

Wine Styles at a Glance

White, Red, Rosé and Regional Specialities

Each grape variety has its own distinctive character. Together with the terroir – the soil, climate and vineyard location – it shapes the flavour of Baden-Württemberg’s wines. German wine law distinguishes between three basic styles of quality wine: white, red and rosé.Rosé wine is made from red grapes. To achieve its pale colour, the must is separated from the colour-giving grape skins immediately after pressing.Weißherbst is a special type of rosé. It must be made exclusively from a single red grape variety, which is always stated on the label.Regional specialities include Schillerwein, a Württemberg Rotling made by pressing white and red grapes – or their mash – together. Baden’s version of this style is known as Badisch Rotgold.Another speciality is Blanc de Noir. The name translates as ‘white from black’ and refers to a white wine made from red grapes such as Pinot Noir. As the pigments are found mainly in the grape skins, early harvesting and particularly gentle processing produce a pale must. The result has the colour of a white wine but its own distinctive aromas.

In Short:

From rosé and Weißherbst to Schillerwein, Badisch Rotgold and Blanc de Noir, Baden-Württemberg’s wines reveal the remarkable variety that different grapes and winemaking methods can bring to the glass.

Distinctive Red Wine from Baden-Württemberg

Baden-Württemberg’s wine regions offer ideal conditions for a wide variety of red grape varieties.

Discover Baden-Württemberg’s Red Grape Varieties

From Pinot Noir to Lemberger: The Red Stars of Southwest Germany

Red wine contains more tannins than white wine and is often matured in wooden casks or barriques.

Pinot Noir: The Diva of Red Grape Varieties

inot Noir is regarded as one of the finest red grape varieties. It enjoys ideal growing conditions in Baden, particularly on the Kaiserstuhl, producing wines that rank among the world’s best. Pinot Noir wines are full-bodied and velvety, with characteristic aromas of red and dark fruits such as cherry, strawberry, blackberry and blackcurrant, complemented by subtle notes of almond. When matured in barriques, they also develop hints of vanilla and cinnamon. Deeply coloured, tannic Pinot Noirs are attracting a growing following. Ageing in small oak barrels softens their acidity. Incidentally, tannins are the compounds responsible for the wine’s astringency.

Red Wine Variety Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir grapes have a dark blue to violet-blue colour.

Trollinger: Württemberg’s National Hero

Trollinger is known as Württemberg’s ‘national drink’ and remains a firm favourite in the region. Fruity styles are best served slightly chilled. When fermented on the skins, it develops a fine tannin structure and greater depth. This late-ripening red grape variety produces brick-red wines that pair well with hearty regional dishes such as Zwiebelrostbraten, a traditional roast beef dish with onions.

Red Wine Variety Trollinger

Trollinger grapes have a dark blue to black-blue colour.

Samtrot: Velvety and Smooth

HeilbronnerLand is renowned for its Samtrot, a firm favourite at the annual Heilbronn Wine Festival. A member of the Pinot family, Samtrot sits between Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir. Its hallmark is a velvety-smooth character. These red wines pair beautifully with celebratory Sunday meals such as roast beef.

Red Wine Variety Samtrot

Samtrot red grapes have a red, warm colour.

Regent: A Hardy Wine Grape

As Regent is resistant to fungal diseases, many chemical plant protection treatments can be avoided. The wines are full-bodied, with moderate acidity and fruity notes of cherry and blackcurrant. They are often matured in barriques, resulting in rich wines reminiscent of robust, dry wines from warmer climates, with a firm tannin structure and usually a deep red colour. Incidentally, dry wines are fermented until virtually all the sugar has been converted into alcohol.

Red wine variety Regent

The grapes of the Regent grape variety are dark blue to violet-blue in colour

Dornfelder: An Early-Ripening Red Grape Variety

This popular grape variety is mainly made into dry wines, although some are off-dry. Its deep red colour makes it easy to recognise. There are two main styles. The first emphasises intense fruit aromas such as sour cherry, blackberry and elderberry and is released young. Other wine producers mature Dornfelder in large wooden casks or small oak barrels known as barriques, bringing its tannins and structure to the fore. Dornfelder is generally full-bodied, smooth and well balanced. It pairs beautifully with hearty roasts, game or cheese. Young, fruit-forward styles are also delicious served slightly chilled in summer.

Red Wine Variety Dornfelder

Dornfelder grapes have a dark blue to black-blue colour.

Lemberger: Warm-Climate Character

This flagship Württemberg grape thrives in a warm climate and sheltered sites. Its wines are usually an intense dark red, with aromas reminiscent of blackberry, cherry, plum, blackcurrant and elderberry. Some also have notes of cocoa or green pepper. Depending on how they are made, they may be fruit-forward or tannic. Some Lemberger wines are matured in barriques, giving them an almost Mediterranean warmth and charm. Lemberger pairs well with grilled food, richly flavoured roast poultry or game birds, hearty game dishes, pot roasts and lamb. On a cheeseboard, it is particularly well suited to low-fat blue cheese and mature mountain cheese.

Red Wine Variety Lemberger or Blaufränkisch

Lemberger grapes have a dark blue to black-blue colour.

Acolon: A Spicy New Grape Variety

The red grape variety Acolon was developed in Weinsberg. Within just a few years, it has established itself firmly among Germany’s red wines. A cross between Lemberger and Dornfelder, Acolon combines Dornfelder’s aromas with Lemberger’s structure. This relatively young grape variety shares many characteristics with Lemberger. The wines are deeply coloured, with subtle tannins. The variety is grown mainly on good to moderately favourable sites. Mature, harmonious wines offer pronounced fruit aromas, and some are aged in barriques.

Acolon

Acolon grapes have a dark purple to almost black colour.

Pinot Meunier: An Elegant Expression of Fruit

Pinot Meunier, known in German as Schwarzriesling, is a typical Württemberg grape variety and has no connection to Riesling. Instead, it belongs to the Pinot family. Its grapes ripen moderately late, but the variety is less demanding in terms of vineyard site and soil than Trollinger, Lemberger or Pinot Noir. It thrives on rich clay and loess soils. The wines range from ruby to brick red, with aromas of red berries and a typically elegant body. The finish has a slightly bitter note.

Close-up of a red wine grape Schwarzriesling

Red Wine Variety Schwarzriesling or Pinot Meunier

Black Riesling grapes have a dark blue to black-blue colour.

Muskat-Trollinger: An Aromatic Local Favourite

This little-known grape variety is grown primarily in Württemberg and is thought to be a mutation of Trollinger. Originally cultivated as a highly aromatic table grape, Muskat-Trollinger is now a distinctive regional speciality known for its pronounced Muscat aromas. Served chilled, it makes a delightful aperitif at any time of year.

Close-up of a Muscat Trollinger red wine grape

Red Wine Variety Muskat-Trollinger

Muscat Trollinger grapes have a ruby red colour.

Baden-Württemberg’s Diverse White Wines

From Gutedel and Riesling to Pinot Gris, Baden-Württemberg is one of Germany’s most diverse white wine regions.

From Riesling to Gutedel: The White Stars of Southwest Germany

White wines are made from white grapes or from pale-fleshed red grapes that are pressed without their skins.

Riesling: The Queen of White Grape Varieties

Riesling is Germany’s best-known grape variety and is regarded as the queen of white wines. It is also the leading white grape variety in Baden-Württemberg’s Weinsüden. Refined yet demanding, it is perhaps one of the world’s most complex grape varieties. Wine lovers appreciate its remarkable versatility: it can do it all. From everyday wines to Prädikatswein, Riesling is popular in every quality category. Incidentally, in some areas it is also known as ‘Klingelberger’.

White wine grape Riesling

Riesling grapes have a greenish to yellowish colour

Pinot Gris: A Popular All-Rounder

Pinot Gris, also known as Grauburgunder, is Baden-Württemberg’s second most important white grape variety. A mutation of Pinot Noir, it produces darker grapes with a mauve hue, making it stand out visually from other white grape varieties. Depending on the winemaking method, its aromas range from green walnuts, almonds, pear, pineapple and citrus fruit to dried fruit, raisins and fresh butter. It can also display herbaceous notes of green beans or green pepper. Wines matured in barriques may develop subtle toasted notes.

Close-up of the Pinot Gris grape variety

Pinot Gris White Wine Variety

Pinot Gris grapes have a reddish to red-grey colour.

Pinot Blanc: An Elegant White Grape Variety

Pinot Blanc grapes and leaves are identical in shape to those of Pinot Gris, but the ripe berries are a completely different colour. Pinot Blanc wines have higher acidity and are generally elegant and vibrant. However, they do not reach their full flavour potential until at least a year after the harvest. Typical aromas include green walnuts and almonds, as well as pear, quince, pineapple and apricot. Notes of citrus fruit and, occasionally, freshly cut grass may also feature. Pinot Blanc is both refreshing and complex – and, above all, an excellent food wine.Did You Know? Auxerrois is a variation of Pinot Blanc. It offers expressive aromas and a delicately creamy texture, with gentle richness, compelling minerality and a characteristically vibrant freshness.

Close-up of the Pinot Blanc grape variety

Pinot Blanc White Wine Variety

Pinot Blanc grapes have a greenish-yellowish colour.

Chardonnay: A Global Star Among White Wines

Chardonnay is grown in all the world’s major wine regions. A global star among white wines, it thrives in the same locations as Pinot Blanc and is similarly demanding to cultivate. Typical aromas include melon, exotic fruit, ripe gooseberry and crisp apple. The wines are often full-bodied, with high levels of alcohol and extract. When matured in barriques, notes of vanilla and toast complement the fruit aromas. Chardonnay is also particularly well suited to sparkling wine production.

Close-up of the Chardonnay grape variety

Chardonnay White Wine Variety

Chardonnay grapes have a greenish-yellow to golden yellow colour.

Müller-Thurgau: The Ideal Summer Wine

Silvaner: A Versatile All-Rounder

Silvaner is a cross between Traminer and the indigenous variety Österreichisch Weiß. Few grape varieties reflect their terroir as clearly, making Silvaner ideal for curious wine lovers. Highly versatile and mild in acidity, its aromas range from delicate citrus to pronounced pear, with earthy notes also possible. It can shine as an easy-drinking summer wine or as a smooth, creamy wine matured in barriques. A finely crafted, elegant Silvaner Spätlese or an intensely luscious sweet wine can be equally rewarding. With Silvaner, almost anything is possible.

Silvaner White Wine Variety

Silvaner grapes have a greenish-yellow colour.

Kerner: A Native Swabian

Gutedel: A Low-Acidity White Wine

Gutedel is widely grown, but its grapes are made into wine in only a few regions. In Germany, this takes place primarily in Baden’s Markgräflerland. Gutedel wines are usually low in alcohol and mild in acidity, with a full-bodied, smooth yet fresh texture. Their delicate aromas are characterised by a range of yellow fruits, particularly mirabelle plum, pear and melon. Nutty nuances and notes of white nougat may also feature. Gutedel wines are best enjoyed young, ideally within two years of the harvest. The variety is also well suited to sparkling wine production.

Gutedel White Wine Variety

Chasselas grapes have a yellow-green colour.

Sauvignon Blanc: A Popular Cosmopolitan

Sauvignon Blanc is an international grape variety. It still accounts for only a small share of Germany’s vineyards, but this is growing as its fresh, fruity wines attract an increasing number of fans. Until the 1980s, Sauvignon Blanc was marketed under special permission as ‘Weißer Bordeaux’. Its aromas range from gooseberry and blackcurrant to freshly cut grass and herbs, with notes of green apple or fresh pineapple also possible. It is particularly refreshing as a summer wine.

Close-up of the Sauvignon Blanc grape variety

Sauvignon Blanc White Wine Variety

Sauvignon Blanc grapes have a greenish-yellow to golden yellow colour.

Gewürztraminer: An Aromatic White Grape Variety

Gewürztraminer has a long history of cultivation in Germany. Depending on the soil and yield, this highly aromatic, spicy variety can produce wines ranging from elegant to rich and full-bodied, with the latter sometimes reaching a considerable alcohol level. Its flowers, however, are particularly sensitive. All Traminer wines have relatively mild acidity and a characteristic scent of fading roses, accompanied by notes of honey, marzipan, bitter orange and quince jelly. A herbaceous, spicy character complements the fruit aromas. This rich aromatic profile is especially appealing to lovers of aromatic wines.Did You Know? Traminer is one of the oldest known grape varieties.

Close-up of the Gewürztraminer grape variety

Gewürztraminer White Wine Variety

Gewürztraminer grapes have a yellow-reddish to pink colour.

Scheurebe: An Exotic, Intensely Aromatic Variety

Scheurebe was developed by Georg Scheu in 1916. Germany’s most important aromatic grape variety, it is known for its exotic fruit aromas, alongside characteristic notes of blackcurrant. Lusciously sweet styles offer exceptional finesse and excellent ageing potential. Its range of styles and quality classifications makes Scheurebe remarkably versatile. A light Kabinett is ideal for relaxed gatherings, while lusciously sweet Auslese, Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese wines pair beautifully with fruit-based desserts.

Scheurebe White Wine Variety

Scheurebe grapes have a greenish-yellow colour.

Muscat: A Historic Noble Grape Variety

Muscat is one of the oldest white grape varieties. Its name comes from its characteristic Muscat aroma, although notes of elderflower and exotic fruit are also typical. Its lively acidity keeps the wine tasting fresh, even when made in a lusciously sweet style. Muscat pairs well with Asian and Indian dishes, as well as strongly flavoured cheeses.

Muskateller White Wine Variety

Muscat grapes can have a variety of colours.

Understanding Grape Varieties and Wine Quality

Answers About Grape Varieties, Origin and Enjoying Wine

Which Red Grape Varieties Are Grown in Baden-Württemberg?

The most important red grape varieties include Trollinger and Lemberger, both closely associated with Württemberg, as well as Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir and the rare Samtrot variety. Württemberg is known throughout Germany as a classic red wine region, while Baden is particularly renowned for its Pinot Noir.

Wine Region Baden
Baden. Sunny Superlatives.
Wine Region of Württemberg
Württemberg. Steep Excellence.

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Where Is Germany’s Best Red Wine Grown?

Which White Grape Varieties Are Grown in Baden-Württemberg?

Where Is Germany’s Best White Wine Grown?

Baden is one of Germany’s best-known white wine regions. Its mild climate is particularly well suited to Pinot Gris, intensely aromatic varieties and Gutedel, a speciality of the Markgräflerland. Württemberg Riesling from the steep vineyards along the Neckar also enjoys an excellent reputation.

Home to Outstanding White Wines

Baden-Württemberg is known for Riesling, Pinot Gris and Müller-Thurgau.

What Do Kabinett, Spätlese and Auslese Mean on German Wine Labels?

What Is Changing in German Wine Labelling Law?

Since 2021, a new origin-based hierarchy has complemented the existing quality classifications. Its guiding principle is: the more precisely a wine’s origin is defined, the higher its quality classification. The categories range from wine-growing region to region, village and single vineyard. Prädikat categories such as Kabinett, Spätlese and Auslese will remain in place. The transition period ends with the 2026 vintage, meaning that wines will have to be labelled under the new system from around 2027. Find Out More About Wine Law and Regulations

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