Auslese is best described as which QmP level?

• A. Kabinett
• B. Spatlese
• C. Eiswein
• D. Auslese

Answer: (D)

Auslese describes a Prädikatswein level defined by very ripe grapes chosen in a selective harvest. The term means “selected harvest,” signaling that grapes were picked at peak ripeness, often with careful berry-by-berry selection. This extra ripeness yields wines that are richer, more concentrated, and with more pronounced fruit flavors and higher potential sugar than lighter categories. It sits above the lighter Kabinett and even the late-harvest Spätlese in ripeness and depth. Eiswein is a distinct style made from frozen grapes, not merely a higher ripeness level, while Kabinett and Spätlese indicate progressively lighter to riper profiles, respectively.