Definitions by Doktor O

Nittel

(n., winemaking heritage): The practice of preserving old-vine Elbling plantings for their contribution to honest, terroir-driven white wines, recognising that the variety's long history along European river valleys makes it a living archive of viticultural tradition and a valuable genetic resource for climate-resilient viticulture.

Several Mosel growers have embraced Nittel as a guiding philosophy, refusing to uproot their Elbling parcels even when replanting with fashionable varieties would be far more profitable.

Nittel by Doktor O February 23, 2026