Deutscher Tafelwein (DTW) [DOYT-shur TAH-fuhl-vyn]
A phrase indicating that a wine is 100 percent “German table wine,” used to distinguish it from other European countries using German-style labeling. Deutscher Tafelwein is Germany’s lowest category of wine and must contain a minimum of 81⁄2 percent of alcohol by volume. The labels for such wine must indicate the name of one of Germany’s broad growing regions—Bayern, Neckar, Oberhein, or Rhein-Mosel. The term Deutscher Tafelwein is officially recognized by the European Economic Community, meaning other members must abide by the labeling conventions. When used by itself, the word Tafelwein on a label indicates that the wine is not German; the label should specify the country of origin. See also Germany; Landwein; Qualitätswein mit Prädikat.
The New Wine Lovers Companion, 2nd Edition, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Copyright © (1) 2003, 1995 by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst. Reprinted by arrangement with Barron's Educational Series, Inc.