The Heat Is On

Despite hotter weather, Germany’s 2019 vintage delivered balanced, intense Rieslings

Barbara and Johannes Selbach standing in their vineyard, while Johannes holds a bottle of wine
Barbara and Johannes Selbach made a range of outstanding Rieslings in 2019. (Jens Lübkemann)

Despite hotter growing seasons due to climate change, the quality of Germany's wines has never been better or more consistent. While the style of the wines is changing, and there's greater uncertainty whether a vintage will have the right conditions to produce the country's exquisite dessert wines, the 2019 vintage shows vintners are adapting well and are on the right course, delivering intense and balanced Rieslings. Get the full report, plus senior editor Bruce Sanderson's scores and tasting notes for top wines and values.

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today

You Might Also Like

Alphabetical Guide to Italian Sparkling Wine

Alphabetical Guide to Italian Sparkling Wine

More than 100 sparkling wines from across Italy were reviewed by Wine Spectator senior …

Sep 30, 2024
Alphabetical Guide to California Pinot Noir

Alphabetical Guide to California Pinot Noir

More than 750 Pinot Noirs from across California were reviewed by Wine Spectator senior …

Sep 30, 2024
Alphabetical Guide to Vinho Verde

Alphabetical Guide to Vinho Verde

More than 30 white wines from Portugal’s Vinho Verde region were reviewed by Wine …

Sep 30, 2024
Alphabetical Guide to Austria

Alphabetical Guide to Austria

More than 100 wines from Austria were reviewed by Wine Spectator senior editor Kristen …

Sep 30, 2024
10 Outstanding Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons Under $75

10 Outstanding Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons Under $75

The acclaimed California region takes the spotlight with new reviews of 2021 Cabernets, …

Aug 5, 2024
9 Excellent New Zealand Pinot Noirs Up to 95 Points

9 Excellent New Zealand Pinot Noirs Up to 95 Points

Wines from Central Otago, Marlborough and Martinborough feature in these new reviews of …

Aug 1, 2024