Weissherbst

Weissherbst is a term used in German wine terminology to describe a type of rosé wine made from red grape varieties. The term is derived from the German words "weiss" (white) and "herbst" (autumn), indicating the lighter color of the wine compared to traditional red wines.

History

The history of Weissherbst is closely tied to the history of German wine production. The practice of making rosé wine from red grapes dates back to the Roman times, but the specific term "Weissherbst" is a relatively recent development in the German wine industry.

Production

The production of Weissherbst involves the use of red grape varieties, such as Spätburgunder or Blaufränkisch. The grapes are harvested and then quickly pressed to extract the juice. The skins of the grapes, which contain the pigments that give red wine its color, are removed from the juice after a short period of time. This results in a wine that has a lighter color than traditional red wines.

Characteristics

Weissherbst wines are characterized by their light, pinkish color and their fresh, fruity flavors. They are typically dry and have a moderate to high acidity level. The specific flavor profile of a Weissherbst can vary depending on the grape variety used and the specific conditions of the vineyard where the grapes were grown.

Regions

Weissherbst wines are produced in several wine regions in Germany, including the Rheingau, Mosel, and Pfalz regions. Each of these regions has its own unique climate and soil conditions, which can influence the characteristics of the Weissherbst wines produced there.

Pairing

Weissherbst wines are versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods. They are often served with light dishes such as salads, seafood, and poultry. They can also be enjoyed on their own as an aperitif.

See Also

• German wine
• Rosé wine
• Pinot noir
• Blaufränkisch