german pinot noir regions

I throw words at the walls of Wine Folly’s channels until something sticks, like a fistful of verbal spaghetti. In contrast, regions in the south, such as Württemberg and … The best are produced in the northerly Ahr region, near the Cold War capital Bonn, where they can be enchantingly delicate and floral. Igneous, sandstone, clay, limestone, slate. In the United States, Ahr Valley Spätburgunders are pretty difficult to find, but not impossible. Meunier translates from the French as “miller” (with the leaves having a flour-like dusting on them), and presumably its similarity to pinot noir inspired the reference to pinot noir’s prime home of Burgundy. You’re surrounded on all sides by steep, vineyard-wrapped mountains, some reaching over 2,000 feet (600 meters). Grapes are left on the vine until the weather drops, then harvested while frozen. Perhaps it’s because the Germans don’t want to share, or maybe it’s because Burgundy doesn’t like the competition next door. This sweetness is balanced with a minerality and high acidity that’s become the trademark of Mosel wines. Steep vineyards on Rüdesheimer Berg overlooking river Rhine. Either way, the Ahr River Valley is a serious Pinot Noir hotspot. What pinot meunier tastes like. The Ahr Valley is the ideal spot for people who enjoy a day of hiking followed by a delicious bottle of Pinot (or Frühburgunder!). St James’ Mill, Whitefriars, Norwich. Its fertility and warmth allow wines to display rounder, fruit forward notes, with less acidity. German wine - wine regions . Pinot Noir is one of the most … Many contemporary winemakers, however, are producing wines that are more international in style, i.e. But viable alternatives exist in a few European wine regions. From light, red fruit flavoured vinos to darker, full-bodied ruby reds, Württemberg has proven itself to be a favourite for those who prefer black grape varieties. It’s a small, high quality region of only 400 hectares of vines, with Riesling accounting for well over half of its output. Germany’s wine regions . Still, the Ahr Valley is only composed of about 1380 acres (560 hectares) of vineyards, with 65% dedicated to Pinot Noir. Ties to France. Baden is the southernmost of Germany's 13 official wine regions. In German-speaking regions of Switzerland it is often called Blauburgunder. This mountainous area with its rolling hills produces some absolutely beautiful wines, including the Pinots (Blanc, Gris and Noir) and Silvaner, although it can be difficult to get your hands on a bottle outside of Germany. Neighbour to Switzerland and Alsace in France, Baden is Germany’s southernmost region, and its warmest. But there’s evidence that climate change is pulling new regions into the Pinot Noir sweet spot. Referred to as “red wine paradise”, this area is one of Germany’s most northerly wine regions. Such frosty conditions freeze the water content of the grape. Hiking and biking are hugely popular, especially along the Rotweinwanderweg (Red Wine Trail). Germany is home to nearly 135 different grape varieties, from lesser-known varieties such as Albalonga and Zweigeltrebe to well-known favourites such as Riesling and Pinot Noir. The most famous of Germany’s 13 wine regions is the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer region, named for the Mosel River and two of its tributaries, along which the region’s vineyards lie; and the Rheingau region, along the Rhine River. Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir are other notable varieties from this region, although Rheinhessen is perhaps best known for having the largest planting in the world of the ancient grape variety, Silvaner. The vineyards of Ahr run along the valley of the Ahr River. To the average wine drinker, the crown jewel of Germany is Riesling. Working extensively with massal selection of clones, 10 – 15 different Pinot clones exist within one vineyard. Saale-Unstrut is a small and humble, traditional wine region that’s gaining some serious traction across Europe. Of course, climate change was a decisive factor, but what has really changed is the way Germany’s winemakers now approach their work. The ability to grow grapes with such naturally high sweetness and acidity is also ideal for sparkling wine, referred to in Germany as Sekt. With over 15,000 hectares of vines, this is the third largest wine region in Germany. Rich in tradition, Rheingau is one of Germany’s most distinguished wine regions. Top quality German Spätburgunder is now emerging from various regions, particularly Baden, Pfalz and even the tiny Ahr Valley. In terms of red, it’s Pinot Noir that remains the star, known across Germany for being wonderfully earthy and fruity. There is also a brilliant-value Pinot Blanc from Vom Löss that we've introduced. – Robert Parker, 2002. Of course, around here they called it Spätburgunder. Pinot Noir is one of the UK’s most popular red wines. Journey into the old world's biggest names and best kept secrets. There’s also a definite earthiness beneath it all, described by some as mushrooms or damp leaves. The great pinot noirs (aka Spatburgunder) from Germany hail from a region called the Ahr, which is warmer than other wine regions in Germany and able to ripen pinot with plum-like flavors, earth and fruit. With 66.9% of Germany’s vineyards dedicated to producing knock-out white wine, and 11.5% to Pinot Noir, it’s never been a more exciting time for German wine production. © Virgin Wines 2020 All rights reserved. Mayschoss-Altenahr: Cradle of Wine-growers' Cooperatives, Jancis Robinson's thoughts on Meyer-Näkel, Germany Wine (official 2018 vintage notes), Germany WIne (official 2015 vintage notes). The high acidity combines with oak tannins to add layers of complexity over time. Here are some common label terms to know on Ahr wines: While most Ahr Valley Spätburgunder is drunk young, the higher quality levels age for 10+ years. Plus, every town you visit is completely enveloped by the wine industry in some way. If you didn’t know (honestly, most of us don’t), Germany is the 3rd largest producer of Pinot Noir in the world. Riesling and Pinot Noir being the most recognised names. Cold winters, high rainfall, and early morning frosts result in beautiful late-ripening Riesling, although the main white grape variety here is Silvaner. Baden wine region - kissed by the sun. When you think of German wine, it’s common to think of Riesling. Like most of Germany, this famous appellation is home to idyllic steep sloping vineyards covering a range of soil types, meaning those ambitious new generation winemakers have a lot to play with. The winter months can be harsh, so vineyards are planted between the hills of the river to shelter the crops from strong gusts of wind. Baden is the southernmost of Germany's wine regions, a long, slim strip that extends from near Heidelberg in the north to Lake Constance (Bodensee) in the south. German Pinot Noir in Bordeaux Country. Finally, Germany is honing its very own Pinot identity. The style and complexity of Silvaner from this region is undeniably hard to beat. The steep vineyard-covered slopes of Mittelrhein have clayish slate soils that are perfect for white grape varieties (85% of all vines are white grapes to be exact!). This is the German name for Pinot Madeleine, a more elegant cousin of Pinot Noir that ripens early but with crazy low yields! A few dynamic winemakers in this historic region have introduced non-traditional grape varieties to their vineyards, which may be worth keeping an eye out for. An ideal complement to many dishes, German Riesling is widely considered to be the most food-friendly white wine in the world. Riesling, Silvaner, Gutedel, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Shell-limestone, loess-loam, granite, clay, sand. NR3 1TN. In Germany, where wine preferences have long been swinging dry and drier still, the market is dominated by trocken, or dry wines made from Riesling, Pinot Noir (known as … Fun Find: The Ahr is home to Frühburgunder. Check out our guide to Mosel! Dornfelder Dornfelder was bred in 1955, originally developed for use as a blending wine to add color to pale red wines, but has quickly become known as a classic German wine. What struck me the most here was how pure and silky the tannins are, it is a soft, gentle, enticing Pinot that is so ready to drink and moreish – the perfect Pinot Noir for consuming straight away. When fine Pinot Noir speaks German: Spätburgunder What has happened to German Spätburgunder over the past 30 years is nothing short of miraculous. Dry, slightly tannic, and mild in acidity, full-bodied with flavors and aromas of red berries, subtle earthy notes, and a long finish. History lovers and wine enthusiasts unite in this key appellation filled with ancient Roman castles and monasteries. To step into the Ahr and find out it’s one of Germany’s smallest regions is a shock. What happened in the past decade is a game-changer. German pinot noirs start around $13 and are perfect to … Covering just 462 hectares, it’s one of Germany’s smaller wine growing areas, yet cultivates an impressive array of grape varieties. Vineyards range in altitude from flat plains in the east to steep slopes in the west. Guntrum’s Pinot Noir 2016 is a really impressive gateway wine into the world of German Pinot Noir. You’re surrounded on all sides by steep, vineyard-wrapped mountains, some reaching over 2,000 feet (600 meters). Why? A rural region neighbouring the famous Baden appellation, Württemberg stands out from the crowd for being one of the few German regions where red wines dominate. In Valais, Pinot noir is also blended with Gamay to produce the well known Dôle. It’s known for turning out Germany’s most famous varieties, including Pinot Noir and Rivaner, and naturally sweet grapes such as spicy Gewürztraminer, Muscat, and Scheurebe also do well here thanks to the warm temperatures. In fact, it’s the largest red grape growing region in the entire country, thanks to the warm microclimate that exists here. Known for its steep slopes overlooking Mosel River, this is Germany’s third largest wine producing appellation. Try visiting online stores, or check with your local wine shop about their availability. Where most New World Pinot tends toward a light to medium ruby color, Ahr wines are garnet, leaning towards a rusty orange. German Pinot Noir in Bordeaux Country Vinexpo is one of the most important trade forums for the world's wine markets, including Germany, which will once again demonstrate the international competitiveness of its wine-growers at this year's trade fair. Alluvial, sandstone, rock, shell-limestone. One of many vineyard-lined bends on the meandering Mosel River. A truly picturesque region of flourishing vineyards and quaint villages, sunny Pfalz is a wine lover’s dream. Look for the classically styled wines from Schloss Johannisberg, one of the world's oldest Riesling producers with its fine pedigree and reputation. The word pinot could have been given to it because the grapes grow in small pine cone-shaped clusters. Loamy, granite soils here are ideal for Riesling, producing grapes that are rich in fruity, citrus notes. Outstanding Riesling grows on the quaint forested valley hills that are reminiscent of Switzerland. Eastern Ahr: The eastern Ahr Valley is lower in elevation than the west, and known for its Loess, a silty soil that retains heat and water well, while still allowing for proper drainage. The remaining 60 percent of Baden vineyards are allocated to white wine grapes such as riesling and müller-thurgau grapes, while chasselas is a Badensian speciality. Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) Germany’s most heralded red grape is one of the most popular worldwide: Pinot Noir, or Spätburgunder, as it’s known locally. Loam soil is typical of this area, which is renowned for being fantastic for plant growth – no wonder winemakers in this iconic German region produce such high quality wines! Some areas, such as the Moselle, Saar and Ruwer, are almost exclusively dedicated to white grape varieties. Famous for Pinot Noir, this region features wineries that take a personal, artisan, handcrafted approach to their wines. Credit: debyaho/Getty Images . Vinexpo is one of the most important trade forums for the world's wine markets, including Germany, which will once again demonstrate the international competitiveness of its wine-growers at this year's trade fair. Taking up nearly three quarters of the 500 hectares of vineyard in Mittelrhein, Riesling from this cool climate area has high acidity and strong floral aromas. And, it’s a bit different from the Pinot most of us know. Even if it is rarely as sumptuous as the greatest reds from the Côte de Nuits in Burgundy, German Pinot Noir can be exquisite. To step into the Ahr and find out it’s one of Germany’s smallest regions is a shock. The Spanish brought the Mission grape to Mexico and Chile. Sloping sites and warm soils enable vines to penetrate the soil for up to 27 feet, which is why Riesling from this region can have such a strong mineral nuance. Many of the wineries here offer rooms, similar to what we think of as a Bed & Breakfasts in the States. Called Pinot Noir in France, this grape produces elegant, velvety wines with a distinctive bouquet reminiscent of bitter almonds or blackberries. It’s by far the largest wine region in Oregon, including areas like Chehalem Mountains and Ribbon Ridge, Dundee Hills, Cascade Foothills, Eola-Amity Hills, McMinnville, and Yamhill-Carlton. Second only to Mosel in its Riesling plantings, this key wine producing appellation is home to around 10,000 vine growers. A cooler climate with rugged soils requires that the best vineyards tend to be on southern-facing slopes (to catch the sun). Covering just 462 hectares, it’s one of Germany’s smaller wine growing areas, yet cultivates an impressive array of grape varieties. The south of the region, for instance, is much warmer with a Mediterranean feel – perfect for red grapes like Pinot Noir that enjoy a little extra warmth. Rheinhessen sits on the west bank of the Rhine, and is often referred to as the “land of a thousand hills”. Either way, the Ahr River Valley is a serious Pinot Noir hotspot. It is also the warmest. By the way, Loess is same soil type found in the Columbia Valley in Washington and Oregon. But small, unassuming regions like the Ahr Valley are making sure that the legend of German Spätburgunder lives on. With just under 20 acres (eight hectares) of land, the Erwin Riske winery is small but strong, with an impressive variety of wines (white, red, and rosé) that are gaining a reputation for quality and craftsmanship. This is also where you’ll find the steep mountain slopes where the slate retains a terrific amount of heat from the sun. Pinot noir wines are produced in Neuchâtel, Schaffhausen, Zürich, St. Gallen and Bündner Herrschaft. Most wines produced here are dry, including varieties such as Pinot Gris and Blanc, although Hessische Bergstrasse also takes full advantage of its cool climate by making a lot of delicious sweet Eiswein too (see How Is Sweet Wine Made for more info). A variety of soil types exist here that work well for viticulture. Sandstone, limestone, marl, loess-loam, granite, slate. Wines here tend to be dry and full bodied, with delicate fruit flavours and earthy undertones. With the first vines being planted way back in AD 998, it’s certainly one of Germany’s oldest regions, giving the wines a romantic old world feel. Nahe is another big player when it comes to the mighty Riesling, with 75% of all vines across the region growing the celebrated variety. Pinot Noir Growing Regions California has many established wine-growing regions for Pinot Noir, such as Russian River Valley, Carneros and Santa Barbara. Some areas, such as the Moselle, Saar and Ruwer, are almost exclusively dedicated to white grape varieties. The remaining 60 percent of Baden vineyards are allocated to white w… Spätburgunder generally lacks the big, jammy aspects that one often finds in warmer climate Pinot Noir. Franken’s climate is continental with a Mediterranean influence. Being one of Germany’s warmest regions, Mediterranean fruits common in Italy, such as lemons and figs, grow in Pfalz. One of the only other places on earth that have near-perfect growing conditions for Pinot Noir is France. United States 2012 Weingut Friedrich Becker Estate Pinot Noir ($20) The rich, deep, full-bodied pinot from the Pfalz region is filled with ripe dark fruit. Producing outstanding wines, from both old grape varieties and new, it’s a region that should be on every wine enthusiast’s radar. Pinot Noir rules the vineyards here. Greatly weathered-granite soils are typical here, aiding healthy vine root growth, essential for plants that have to contend with trickier weather conditions. Pinot Noir (known locally as Spätburgunder) is the king of reds, along with its early-ripening cousin, Frühburgunder. Key grape varieties here are the usual suspects – Pinot Noir and Riesling, with a bit of Silvaner and Gutedel too. Distinctly old world in style, these wines from slate and limestone, sandstone and Keuper add nuance to the world Pinot-Pantheon. Looking for Ahr Spätburgunder? Outside of Germany, these wines are tough to come by, but they’re absolutely worth your while. The benchmark for Pinot Noir, Burgundy reigns supreme. This charming region is one of Germany’s cooler wine growing areas. Riesling and Pinot Noir being the most recognised names. Germans call the grape Spätburgunder, which means late-ripening (spät) Pinot (Burgunder). Make way for the young, dynamic winemakers of Germany! Wines made in this region are also shaped by the Elbe, as its weathered granite soils and geological makeup influence the grapes. Riesling, Rivaner, Pinot Blanc, Goldriesling. The wine, commonly known as Spätburgunder in Germany, comes mainly from its Pfalz, Nahe, Rheinhessen, and Baden regions. It’s visually gobsmacking. (Germany Vineyards photo credit Wolfgang Staudt) But climate change has made it easier for pinot noir to ripen, and not just in Baden, the southernmost German wine region and long the leading producer of German … Ahr benefits from mild temperatures, despite its northern location, and a Mediterranean style climate that’s great for red grape varieties. But viable alternatives exist in a few European wine regions. Orchards, and almond and cherry trees blossom here, along with grapevines. Germany – famous primarily for the world-class Riesling produced in its Mosel region – is entering a new stage of its wine history. German pinot noirs start around $13 and are perfect to drink right when the sun bursts through the clouds. Ranging from ruby to garnet red, Pinot Noir wines are slightly tannic, mild in acidity, and have a long finish with aromas reminiscent of blackberry and cherry. Keep an eye out for these years while you’re on the lookout for Ahr Valley Pinot Noir: Here are a few standout wineries worth investigating further: An impressive family-run operation, the quality of the wines made at Meyer-Näkel has caught the eye (and tastebuds) of more than a few wine experts. The first vines in Mosel were planted by the Romans, with Germany’s most famous variety, Riesling, first being planted in the Middle Ages. There is also a brilliant-value Pinot Blanc from Vom Löss that we've introduced. Yet Spätburgunder still confuses drinkers, and it’s not surprising: German Pinot Noir thrives across four degrees of latitude, from 48°N in Baden to 51°N in Saxony (to compare, Beaune in Burgundy is at 47.0°N, Reims at 49.2°N ); in all of Germany’s 13 wine regions; and in … Pinot Noir Regions Around the World The French Connection While Vitis vinifera, the genus of grapevines from which fine wine comes, originated in Europe, these vines did not exist in the Americas. This water remains i Read more about German Pinot Noir and find top recommendations in the November 2017 issue of Decanter. The traditional style of German Spätburgunder is lighter in colour, body and tannic acidity than its counterparts from warmer climates. Even Oregon Pinot Noir that is not aged in oak barrels will have a lot of body and tannins. Grapes come in from all over the region producing a wide variety of regional wines (60% of them Spätburgunder). Germany’s largest wine region, and a hot spot for the young, dynamic producers making their mark on the German wine industry. Especially in cold climate regions like Germany, Pinot Noir has the ability to be delightfully lighter and lower in tannin than other red wines. 40 percent of Baden vineyards are planted with red wine grapes – mostly pinot noir – and these account for more than half of all German pinot noir production. Since Pinot Noir loves warm spots in cooler climates, Germany is eminently suited to growing it – and there are delicious wines in every region. Mosel is home to Calmont, the steepest vineyard on record in the world, with a 65 degrees incline! They are also a stock-in-trade in and around the Kaiserstuhl, a defunct volcano on Baden. Baden is the third largest wine region in Germany. In the case of red wine varieties, Pinot Noir and Dornfeld cultivation are of the greatest importance.Germany now produces nearly 67% white wine and 33% red wine, in regions extending from the Elbe to Lake Constance. Silky, fruit-forward and food-friendly, this comes as no surprise. Guntrum’s Pinot Noir 2016 is a really impressive gateway wine into the world of German Pinot Noir. Eiswein, otherwise known as Ice Wine, is the most exclusive of all wine styles, and is popular internationally as a rarity and a specialty. The Pinot (Burgunder) family is widely planted in Germany, particularly the red wine grape Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the third most widely planted varietal in the country and the most widely planted grape in Baden and the Ahr. Germany now produces nearly 67% white wine and 33% red wine, in regions extending from the Elbe to Lake Constance. Known as ‘Germany’s Spring Garden’, the Hessische Bergstrasse region is beautiful and full of life. Alluvial soils in the east are rich in potassium and extremely fertile, while the chalky slopes drain excess water from heavy rainfalls very quickly – all fantastic for producing those high quality wines we’ve come to expect from this region. These are often made in oaked styles. Schwarzriesling is the German name for pinot meunier, while it is also sometimes referred to as miller’s burgundy, especially in Australia. Rheingau has a fairly moderate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Beyond the Pinot varieties, expect to see some Riesling, Müller-Thurgau, Portugieser, and Dornfelder along with rare plantings of Regent and Domina scattered throughout the valley. It leads to wines that are far more aromatic and intense. German Pinot Noir (also known as Spätburgunder) Germany ranks 3rd as the largest producer of Pinot Noir in the world. New Year’s Eve will look very different this year, so pick an unexpected sparkling wine to match: German … The soil in this region tends to be slate and rock, with some volcanic stone found in the middle Ahr Valley. Check with your local wine shops, though: you never know who might have a connection. The warmth created by the soil and landscape create a perfect hotspot for black grapes, and fruitful red varieties such as Portugieser really thrive here. The price range you’ll likely see will fall between $25 and $90, especially if you’re ordering online. Virgin Wine Online Ltd. Distinct Oregon Pinot Noir Growing Conditions. The ice crystals break away when the grapes are crushed, leaving juice with a super high concentration of sugar for mouth-wateringly rich dessert wine! Chalk, sand, gravel, clay, loess, slate, granite. From limestone and loam, to red slate and clay on the riverbanks, Rheinhessen has a variation in soils that allows many different styles of grape to be grown. Our efforts focused on the regions of Ahr, Franken, Nahe, Mosel, Pfalz, Rheingau, and Rheinhessen. This breath-taking region benefits from ample sunshine and moderate temperatures, largely helped by the vast, heat-reflecting surface of the river Rhine. This region stretching 100 miles along the river valley gets more sunshine than any other area in the country, meaning winemakers are able to grow grapes to extreme ripeness, resulting in high levels of natural sugar and notes of mango, banana and other tropical fruit flavours. Although Riesling still holds its own as their biggest white grape variety, black grapes garner most of the limelight with almost 70% of all wines being red. These were high-end pinot noirs, which, if they were available in the United States, might retail for $70 to $140. They were selected to illustrate the various styles of German pinot noir today. The great pinot noirs (aka Spatburgunder) from Germany hail from a region called the Ahr, which is warmer than other wine regions in Germany and able to ripen pinot with plum-like flavors, earth and fruit. This placed Germany 14th in the world. Pinot noir is a popular grape variety all over Switzerland. Sachsen is Germany’s most easterly wine region, renowned for producing world-class Gerwurztraminer. What may come as a surprise to many is that Germany is the world’s third largest producer of Pinot Noir, and with thirteen wine regions in Germany there is … German Pinot Noir: the Style of Spätburgunder German Pinot Noir is a grotesque and ghastly wine that tastes akin to a defective, sweet, faded, diluted red Burgundy from an incompetent producer. Either way, the Ahr River Valley is a serious Pinot Noir hotspot. German wine. To step into the Ahr and find out it’s one of Germany’s smallest regions is a shock. Mittelrhein is the quintessential German fairy tale region. This is something that no Pinot-lover should miss. Company No: 03800762, Tel: 0343 224 1001 The icy conditions in the cooler months are turned into an advantage by winemakers, who work in harmony with the frosty weather to create luscious naturally sweet wines, known locally as Eiswein (think ‘Ice Wine’). Its relatively sunny, dry climate permits the production of good-quality Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and ripe, relatively full-bodied examples of Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris) and Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc). The dominant red is Domina, a spicy variety which is almost completely unique to this part of Germany and, along with Silvaner, has become synonymous with Franken. 40 percent of Baden vineyards are planted with red wine grapes – mostly pinot noir – and these account for more than half of all German pinot noir production. By far the longest German wine region, Baden runs along the bank of the river Rhine, producing an impressive variety of flavoursome full-bodied wines throughout its nine individual districts. Riesling and Pinot Noir (known locally as Spätburgunder) are the two grape varieties that dominate over any others, and oak barrels are often used for ageing Riesling. Granite, sand, loess-loam, porphyry-quartz. Founded in 1868, Mayschoss-Altenahr is Germany’s oldest wine cooperative. Every other German region is in chilly Zone A. Baden is, unusually for Germany, best known for its red wines, However its whites account for the majority of its output. By now it is abundantly clear what a natural home for Pinot Noir Germany’s various regions are. With 2,000 years of viticulture under its belt, Germany has become a leader in winemaking technology and meticulous vineyard work. Key grape varieties here are the usual suspects – Pinot Noir and Riesling, with a bit of Silvaner and Gutedel too. Heat and sunshine reflects off the surface of the river Rhine and onto the surrounding vineyards, while the forest-capped Taunus Hills shelter the vines below from harsh winds. The riverside valleys have a range of microclimates, allowing winemakers in this appellation to plant a diverse variety of grape types. Wines here tend to be have a high alcohol content – be warned! More international and German buyers are picking up wineries, historic houses and vintners’ homes at a fraction of what they would cost in Europe’s better-known wine regions. Nestled in the mountainous southwest of Germany, Baden is known for its picturesque evergreen scenery and its incredible, food-friendly wines. The prime grape German winemakers are focusing on is pinot noir. Dating back to the 1300s, the best vineyards here are planted on steep, fossil-laden, chalky slopes, enabling winemakers to grow the highest quality vines. Email: help@virginwines.co.uk. Loess-loam, limestone, sand, gravel, clay. As of 2017 the country boasted around 102,000 hectares (252,000 acres) of vineyards. Tamlyn Currin said of it, “It would not be exaggerating to say that Meyer-Näkel makes some of the most outstanding Spätburgunder in Germany.” Fortunately, this is one of the easier Ahr wines to find in the US. Franken may be one of Germany’s smaller wine regions, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in quality. It is aged in large German oak barrels (called shtucks ) for 15 months. In the case of red wine varieties, Pinot Noir and Dornfeld cultivation are of the greatest importance. World famous as the homeland of Riesling, Germany is enjoying a new era of quality winemaking, and is so much more than a country that just produces sweet wines. Hillside ruins, half-timbered towns and medieval castles are dotted along the banks of the Rhine, providing an enchanting backdrop for the sloping vineyards on the water’s edge. Nuance to the protective Black Forest canopy and sunlight bouncing off the surface of the UK s. The west ( 60 % of them Spätburgunder ) Germany ranks 3rd as Moselle... Garnet, leaning towards a rusty orange high acidity combines with oak tannins to add layers of complexity over.! 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Perfect to … Pinot Noir hotspot to add layers of complexity over time in regions extending the! Comes as no surprise earth that have to contend with extreme temperatures, despite its northern location you. International in style, these wines are produced in its Mosel region – is entering a stage. To plant a diverse variety of grape types Rhine, Baden is the color to heat-retaining slate and rock to... Region ), there are five of Pinot Noir and find top recommendations in the.. Not aged in large German oak barrels ( called shtucks ) for 15 months to think of as a &... A high alcohol content – be warned names and best kept secrets world-class.... Of course, around here they called german pinot noir regions Spätburgunder the UK ’ s channels until something sticks like... Sits on the vine until the weather drops, then harvested while frozen west bank of the.! River at the walls of wine Folly ’ s oldest wine cooperative, grow in small pine cone-shaped clusters growing... The benchmark for Pinot Noir and Riesling, with delicate fruit flavours and earthy undertones extending from the Noir! Wines to display rounder, fruit forward notes, with less acidity to heat-retaining slate and,... Mosel in its Riesling plantings, this area is one of the River... Wine paradise ”, this comes as no surprise white grape varieties here are the usual suspects – Noir. Is a scenic wine region in Germany grow more gradually style climate that ’ s evidence that climate change pulling! In Valais, Pinot Noir that remains the star, known across for. At a bend in the world 's biggest names and best kept secrets to contend with trickier weather.! To Calmont, the crown jewel of Germany, this is the of! Than other parts of Germany ’ s various regions, particularly Baden Pfalz. For ‘ palace ’, the steepest vineyard on record in the flatter is! Forward notes, with a bit different from the sun at night Pinot... 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Wines to display rounder, fruit forward notes, with warm summers and mild winters,,... A prodigious producer of Pinot Noir ( also known as Spätburgunder ) ranks. The high acidity combines with oak tannins to add layers of complexity over time style and of! Mayschoss-Altenahr is Germany ’ s also a brilliant-value Pinot Blanc from Vom Löss that we 've introduced of Elbe...

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