2020 Weingut Knipser Kirschgarten Spätburgunder Grosses Gewachs

The Knipser brothers released their first red wines of international standard back in the early 1980s. Since then, they have dedicated themselves to perfecting their vineyard methods and, consequently, the quality of their wines. Their focus is on Große Gewächse Riesling and Pinot Noir. The Knipser Winery is located in Laumersheim, in Germany's second-largest wine region, Palatinate. Knipser has been voted Germany's best winemaker several times.

Knipser is known for his many excellent wines from various grape varieties, including Spätburgunder, St. Laurent, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Grauburgunder, Weissburgunder, Gewürztraminer, and even the Bordeaux grape varieties Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon! This wide range of grape varieties allows him to produce diverse wines from styles ranging from Burgundy to Bordeaux, all from a single appellation. Ninety-five percent of his wines are dry, primarily from traditional grape varieties, which are accompanied by wines from non-indigenous varieties, but with a Palatinate interpretation.

As with all of Knipser's premium wines, the red wines are only available after several years of aging. The Kirschgarten Spätburgunder is the top model and comes from the oldest Spätburgunder vines (Grosses Gewächs). It originates from a small vineyard consisting of several plots on the southern edge of Laumersheim. Very calcareous locations such as the "Mergelweg" (since 2007) and the "Riescht-Plot" next to the houses are also used. The latter plot boasts the oldest Spätburgunder vines. This very sheltered location in the wind and rain shadow of Orlenberg was already prized in the Middle Ages by the Kirschgarthen nunnery in Worms. The subsoil consists primarily of loess soil (fine clay) with excellent water retention capacity and limestone.

This 100% Spätburgunder, also known as Pinot Noir, is classic in its element. The nose is slightly animalistic with fine fruit aromas of cherry, red currant, and a touch of blackberry, as well as some leather, oak, and espresso. On the palate, soft, ripe tannins continue to age beautifully. The acidity combined with the beautiful red fruit makes this wine very elegant. The 2020 edition was aged for almost five years (first in barrel and then in bottle) before being released.

Kirschgarthen receives top ratings every year, making it one of the best Pinot Noir Grosse Gewächsen in Germany. A delightful wine to savor, it's naturally excellent with a nice roast, grilled beef, pork, and poultry.