64. WSET Level 2: How to Read a German Wine Label

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Wine Educate Podcast – Episode 64
German Wine Laws (Level 2 Overview)

Welcome to Episode 64 of the Wine Educate Podcast. In this episode, host Joanne Close dives into one of the most confusing—but fascinating—topics in WSET Level 2: German Wine Laws.

Whether you're just starting your wine studies or deep into Level 3 prep, this episode will walk you through the core classifications used in Germany, including how to interpret wine styles based on sugar levels and labeling clues.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The three main quality levels covered in Level 2:
  Landwein, Qualitätswein, and Prädikatswein

• The six Prädikat categories, from Kabinett to Trockenbeerenauslese

• Labeling terms like Trocken and Halbtrocken and how to spot dry vs. sweet styles

• Hacks for using alcohol percentage and label clues to figure out sweetness levels

Joanne shares helpful context on why sugar levels matter so much in a cool climate like Germany, and how those rules evolved. Plus, she offers practical advice on how to confidently read a German wine label—and what to do when you're faced with a Riesling decision at the wine shop.

Homework:
Visit your local bottle shop and look at their German wine selection.
Can you identify whether a wine is likely to be dry or sweet using the label terms and alcohol percentage? Pick one up and give it a try!

Up Next:
In Thursday's episode, Joanne returns with a deeper dive into the German Wine Laws at the Level 3 level. If you're currently studying for Level 3 or just love going deeper with your wine knowledge, you won't want to miss it.

See you Thursday!