[Cronos]

it depends on the wine (and on one's palate) -- I don't like most German wines -- the Reisling is good, but very specific. It's too dry for my taste, but for others it may be good

Italian wine -- haven't really tasted except for the Cinzano type herbed wines (which I don't like).

S. African -- you are correct

[oldsicilian]

If you can find it, try a German labeled auslese trocken. You might be surprised.