The Wachau classifications Steinfeder, Federspiel, and Smaragd pertain to which wine region?

The Wachau classifications Steinfeder, Federspiel, and Smaragd pertain to which wine region?

• A. Loire Valley
• B. Burgundy
• C. Ribera del Duero
• D. Wachau

Answer: (D)

These terms are a unique labeling system of a particular Austrian wine region. Steinfeder, Federspiel, and Smaragd describe the style and ripeness level of white wines from the Wachau, which sits along the Danube in Austria. They indicate progression from lighter, lower-alcohol wines to fuller, more concentrated ones. Steinfeder represents the lightest, often the most delicate and sprightly in acidity. Federspiel is a middle-ground style with more body and structure. Smaragd denotes the ripest, fullest wines with the highest potential alcohol and aging capacity. Because this three-tier system is specific to Wachau, it points to that region rather than Loire Valley, Burgundy, or Ribera del Duero.

These terms are a unique labeling system of a particular Austrian wine region. Steinfeder, Federspiel, and Smaragd describe the style and ripeness level of white wines from the Wachau, which sits along the Danube in Austria. They indicate progression from lighter, lower-alcohol wines to fuller, more concentrated ones. Steinfeder represents the lightest, often the most delicate and sprightly in acidity. Federspiel is a middle-ground style with more body and structure. Smaragd denotes the ripest, fullest wines with the highest potential alcohol and aging capacity. Because this three-tier system is specific to Wachau, it points to that region rather than Loire Valley, Burgundy, or Ribera del Duero.