Definition: Stargarder

However, wines in the QmP (Qualitätswein mit Prädikat) category cannot be produced in this new region near the Baltic Sea, which has more than 1,750 lakes covering an area of 1,100 square kilometres. Only table wines and ordinary wines (Q.b.A - Qualitätswein bestimmter Anbaugebiete) and those in the recent 2001 classification, "Classic" and "Selection", are permitted.

This 14th wine region was created thanks to a group of wine producers who are more passionate than full-time entrepreneurs. The association, Privatwinzer zu Rattey, has more than 400 members and manages 3.7 hectares of vineyards in addition to a few small plots between Neubrandenburg and Schwerin. In total, the vineyard covers just under five hectares. Nevertheless, comprehensive winemaking facilities are required for this small area.

Mecklenburg wine is not a fad. Wine production already existed in the Middle Ages. However, wars and harsh weather conditions destroyed all traces of the vineyards. Nevertheless, amateur winegrowers and winemakers contributed to the revival of Meck Pomm wine (named after the municipalities of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern) over a period of several years with resistant varieties such as Regent (a black hybrid authorised in Germany, resulting from a cross between Sylvaner and Müller-Thurgau x Chambourcin, created by Alleweldt, director of the Geilweilerhof Wine Institute in Siedeldingen.

From the 2004 harvest onwards, Mecklenburger wine will be available for sale. The first bottles will be on the market in early 2005.

The door is now wide open for other small groups, as vineyards with similar plots exist in Berlin and Hamburg.