Definition: Fruit wine

Wine obtained by fermenting fruits other than grapes, berries or other sugar-containing plants. In such cases, the word wine is used incorrectly, as it is strictly reserved for wine made from grapes. Nevertheless, the usage has become widespread. In 1997, fruit wine production amounted to more than 60 million litres, 40 million of which were produced in Germany alone. Often, the sugar content is insufficient and must be added. Very few fruit wines can improve and mature in the bottle. They must be consumed quickly so as not to lose their initial aroma. Raspberry or blackberry wines, for example, are drunk as an aperitif and with certain desserts.