What does "Bereich" mean in the context of German wine?

In the context of German wine, the term "Bereich" refers to a district within an Anbaugebiet, which is a designated wine-growing area. Germany's wine classification system is hierarchical, and Anbaugebiete are broader regions defined by specific geographical and climatic factors conducive to viticulture. Within these Anbaugebiete, the Bereich serves as a subdivision that encompasses a collection of individual vineyards or specific locations, allowing for more precise identification of where the grapes for a wine were sourced.

This classification helps in communicating the unique characteristics derived from the terroir of a particular area, contributing to the quality and style of the wines produced there. It is essential for consumers and producers alike to understand these distinctions, as they often correlate with the reputation and attributes of the wines, much like established regions in other wine-producing countries.