German wines are enjoying a remarkable rise in the U.S., thanks to a dedicated network of sommeliers, importers, restaurants, and distributors championing their quality and diversity. Key figures like Jesse Becker MS, Regional and Category Ambassador of Sommeliers Choice Awards, alongside trailblazers such as Stephen Bitterolf of Vom Boden and Ernst Loosen of Dr. Loosen, have been instrumental in this journey. The Sommeliers Choice Awards showcase top importers, restaurants, merchants, and organizations that are driving the appreciation and success of German wines across the nation.

Jesse Becker MS - Regional and Category Ambassador of Sommeliers Choice Awards

Image: Jesse Becker MS, the US Sales Manager at Veritable Wines & Estates KG

Master Sommelier Jesse Becker has over two decades of experience in the wine trade, having worked at renowned restaurants like Tra Vigne, NoMI, and Frasca Food and Wine. His expertise spans across California, France, and Germany, with three harvests and multiple certifications, including the prestigious Master Sommelier title in 2008. Becker is a regional and category ambassador for the Sommeliers Choice Awards, a German wine professional, and US sales manager for Veritable Wines & Estates. He also writes about German and Austrian wines on his website, Wine in Germany & Austria.

[[relatedPurchasesItems-61]]

Top German Wines Restaurants in the USA

Discover top German wine restaurants across the USA, each offering an exceptional selection of German wines to complement their authentic cuisine.

Hollerbach’s, Sanford, FL

This German restaurant offers an authentic German dining experience, featuring a diverse selection of German wines. Their wine list includes sweet and dry varieties, such as Valckenberg Dornfelder and Villa Wolf Pinot Noir, as well as renowned Rieslings from Selbach-Oster. 

The Berghoff, Chicago, IL 

Established in 1898, this is a historic German-American restaurant offering classic German and contemporary American cuisine. While it features a variety of wines, including St. Christopher Riesling, the selection of German wines is limited.

Brauhaus Schmitz, Philadelphia, PA

Offering an authentic German dining experience, Brauhaus Schmitz serves more than 30 German beers on draft and over 50 in bottles. While their primary focus is on beer, they also feature a selection of German wines, such as Fritz Müller Sparkling Riesling and Weingut Stadt Krems Grüner Veltliner

Old Europe, Washington, DC

It has been a hallmark of German cuisine and fine wines. The restaurant features an extensive wine list from top German regions like Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz, expertly paired with European dishes

The Village Pub, Woodside, CA

The Village Pub is known for its Michelin-starred cuisine and extensive wine program. The restaurant offers an exceptional selection of German Riesling wines, showcasing the finest labels alongside its renowned culinary offerings.

Image: The Village Pub Wine Collection

Also Read: Restaurants offering the best wine lists in the USA

Top German Wines Merchants in the USA

These top merchants offer exceptional selections, from rare vintages to natural and biodynamic bottles, catering to every wine enthusiast's palate.

Dee Vine Wines, Woodside, CA

Dee Vine Wines specializes in fine and rare German wines, focusing on exceptional Rieslings from renowned producers like Keller, Clemens Busch, and Emrich-Schönleber. Their extensive collection includes vintages dating back to 1900.

Addy Bassin's MacArthur Beverages,  Washington, DC 

This shop is renowned for its exceptional selection of German wines, offering direct imports from top producers and providing customers with reliable, cost-effective access to some of the finest German vintages available.

Crush Wine & Spirits, New York, NY

It stands out as the premier merchant for German wines, offering an expertly curated selection from renowned producers. With a passion for quality and craftsmanship, they deliver exceptional bottles and personalized service to wine enthusiasts.

The Wine House, Los Angeles, CA

The Wine House, a trusted name for over 40 years, offers one of the nation’s most extensive selections of German wines. Their expert staff ensures every customer finds exceptional bottles for any occasion.

Domestique, Washington, DC

This merchant is the go-to merchant for German natural wines, offering a curated selection of organic, biodynamic, and terroir-driven bottles. Their commitment to transparency and quality makes them a favorite among discerning wine enthusiasts.

Also read: Weingut Reichsrat von Buhl - Producing Top-notch Wines Since 1849

Image: Dee Vine Wines’ collection of wines from the Emrich-Schönleber winery

German Wines Distributors in the USA

These distributors are redefining the German wine market with their commitment to quality, sustainability, and expertise. Their curated selections of fine German wines set the standard for excellence in the industry.

Grapevine Distributors

The Carolinas' premier wine distributor excels in offering an unparalleled selection of German wines. With a focus on family-owned wineries and impeccable quality standards, they set the benchmark for exceptional distribution.

Ewald Moseler

This company is renowned for curating the finest German wines. His meticulous selections, shaped by a lifetime of expertise, deliver unmatched quality and exceptional value to wine enthusiasts.

The German Wine Collection

It excels in curating premium German wines, preserving heritage and quality. Their unmatched partnerships with wineries and distributors solidify their position as the leading German wine distributor in the U.S.

Schatzi Wines

Founded by Kevin Pike and Johannes Leitz, it redefines German wine distribution with a focused portfolio, sustainable practices, and direct collaboration with growers. They deliver authentic, terroir-driven wines at fair prices, setting unmatched industry standards.

Slocum & Sons

This is a leading distributor of fine wines and spirits in Connecticut, specializing in premium German wines. Their dynamic portfolio blends category leaders with niche selections, ensuring exceptional quality and service.

Image: The German Wine Collection

Who's Who of German Wines in the USA

The following individuals and organizations have been instrumental in shaping the presence of German wines in the U.S., driving both awareness and appreciation through innovative events, education, and remarkable winemaking.

Stephen Bitterolf, Founder of Vom Boden

He has been a key driver of German wine’s growth in the U.S. His dynamic voice and dedication to small growers, coupled with his Rieslingfeier event, have cultivated a passionate following for German wines.

Wines of Germany

The U.S. arm of the Deutsches Weininstitut plays a vital role in expanding awareness and appreciation for German wines. Through informative resources and engaging events, it champions Germany's diverse wine offerings and cultivates a growing U.S. market.

The International Riesling Foundation

The International Riesling Foundation promotes Riesling worldwide, enhancing communication between producers and educating consumers. Its efforts, including clear labeling and consumer education, foster greater appreciation for German Riesling in the U.S. market.

Ernst Loosen, Winemaker 

Ernst Loosen, owner of the Dr. Loosen estate, is a key figure in the global promotion of German wines. His pioneering work with Chateau Ste. Michelle on the Eroica Riesling has elevated the profile of German wines, particularly in the U.S.

Rieslingfeier

The world's largest festival of German and Austrian wines plays a vital role in promoting German wines in the U.S. By showcasing top winemakers and their exceptional Rieslings, it introduces U.S. consumers to high-quality, world-class wines.

Image: Stephen Bitterolf, Founder of Vom Boden

Header image sourced from The Wine House

Related Links
The Who’s Who of Champagne in the USA: Top Importers, Restaurants, Merchants, and Distributors
The Who’s Who of Austrian Wines in the USA: Top Importers, Restaurants, Merchants, and Distributors