Designation for the dry wines of the highest level in the VDP classification model. The spelling with "ss" instead of "ß" is used for international marketing. It applies to all growing regions with the exception of the Rheingau, where they are called Erstes Gewächs. The Rheingau VDP members are an exception; since the 2013 vintage, they have also been allowed to call the top dry wines from the "VDP.GROSSEN LAGEN®" "VDP.GROSSES GEWÄCHS®".
The designation "Grosses Gewächs" (but here with "ß") is also used in the Bernkasteler Ring association, but has no connection with the VDP classification. See also other classification systems under Grand Cru.
![]()
The Wine lexicon helps me to keep up to date and refresh my knowledge. Thank you for this Lexicon that will never end in terms of topicality! That's what makes it so exciting to come back often.
Thorsten Rahn
Restaurantleiter, Sommelier, Weindozent und Autor; Dresden