Which statement accurately describes Selection?

• A. 9 g/L max but Riesling up to 12 g/L
• B. All Selection wines are hand harvested
• C. Selection wines are released in January
• D. Selection wines must be aged in oak

Answer: (A)

Selection marks a higher tier of German wine, defined by strict quality controls on how the grapes are grown and picked and how the wine is made to maintain a particular dry-to-off-dry style. The specific rule described—maximum residual sugar around 9 g/L, with Riesling able to reach up to about 12 g/L—reflects how the category aims for a generally dry character, while recognizing Riesling’s natural acidity can balance a touch more sweetness. That combination best fits the intended profile of Selection wines, balancing ripeness, acidity, and style.

The other notions aren’t defining features: hand harvesting is associated with quality practices but isn’t universally mandatory for Selection; there’s no fixed release in January for Selection wines; and oak aging isn’t a required attribute of the category.