1981 vintage guide for Germany

drink now

Moderate quality in yet another unexciting vintage

2/5

Weather Conditions

A warm spring encouraged early budding, only to be hit by sharp frosts like those in 1991, which greatly reduced the potential yield. A good summer allowed the Riesling vintage to start in the middle of October.

Best Appellations

The most dedicated growers were able to make a few fine Spatleses and Ausleses with plenty of acidity in most regions, particularly in the Pfalz.

Best Producers

The “Three Bs” in the Pfalz, Basserman-Jordan, Burklin-Wolf and von Buhl made some of the best wisnes.