What is spatlese?

Spatlese is a German term that translates to "late harvest" in English. It is a term used to describe a style of German wine made from grapes that have been left on the vine longer than usual, allowing them to ripen more fully and develop higher levels of sweetness and flavor intensity.

Spatlese wines are typically sweet, but not as sweet as wines labeled as Auslese or Beerenauslese. They have a balance of sweetness and acidity, making them versatile and food-friendly. Spatlese wines are known for their complex flavors, aromas, and aging potential.

In Germany, Spatlese wines are classified according to the ripeness level of the grapes at harvest, with Spatlese being one of the higher ripeness categories. These wines are often made from Riesling grapes, but can also be made from other grape varieties such as Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Muller-Thurgau.

Overall, Spatlese wines are considered to be of high quality and are popular among wine enthusiasts for their balance, complexity, and unique expression of the terroir.