What is the typical body and sweetness level of Auslese wines?

Auslese wines, which are a classification of German wines, are known for their specific characteristics in terms of body and sweetness. The term "Auslese" translates to "select harvest," indicating that these wines are made from hand-picked grapes that have overripe or noble rot effects, contributing to their rich flavors and higher sugar levels.

Typically, Auslese wines are medium-bodied, striking a balance that allows for a pleasant mouthfeel without being overwhelming. Their sweetness levels range from sweet to off-dry, making them versatile for pairing with various foods or enjoying on their own. This moderate level of sweetness comes from the residual sugars retained in the wine after fermentation, which is characteristic of Auslese, differentiating it from other styles such as "beerenauslese" or "trockenbeerenauslese," which are even sweeter and fuller in body.

In summary, Auslese wines are best recognized for being medium-bodied with a sweetness level that can vary, leading to their classification as sweet to off-dry, making this answer the most accurate.