Introduction to the Wines of Germany & The VDP

Introducing our newest wine educational course (and taking advantage of a recently gained VDP Ambassador position), we are launching our two-session course on modern German wines with a heavy focus on the role of the Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter. Things have visibly changee since the establishment of the Grosses Gëwachs system with the 2001 vintage, but there has been discontent within German wine circles prior to that, ever since the Germany Wine Law of 1971 was put in place.
Across two days (Monday April 24rd and Wednesday April 26th), we will lay out the roadmap for understanding German wine, its complex classifications, quality levels and how the two systems relate to each other (the Wine Law of 1971 and the VDP classification). This will not just be Riesling either - only Day 1 will consist of Riesling, Day 2 explores all the other styles and grape varieties which are now garnering attention both within Germany and in fine wine markets abroad. Amongst them are the rising star of German Pinot Noir, or Spätburgunder; and styles which are enjoyed in Germany such as Sylvaner and Weissburgunder.
If you’ve been confused before by Kabinett trockens and the difference between Grosse Lage and Grosses Gewächs; or would like to tell your Brauneberger Juffers from your Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhrs, your Rheingau from your Rheinhessen, or simply want to find out what has changed in Germany over the past decade and why people are talking excitedly about German wines which are not sweet Riesling, then this course is for you.
The course will be led by aforementioned VDP ambassador, Stephen Wong, our resident Master of Wine. There will be quite a few bottles on each day (ten wines per day) to help understand the differences in taste and quality. We recommend signing up for both days together to get the full picture, but also understand that some may not be able to attend both days so a handful of spots have been set aside for single-day attendees.
Please note that Day 1 is on Monday 24rd April and Day 2 is on Wednesday 26th April.