2022 Günther Steinmetz Kestener Paulinsberg Pinot Noir *

Weingut Günter Steinmetz, one of the most renowned Moselle producers, is located in the heart of the German Moselle region and has been making terroir-based wines for generations. It is a family business, led since 1999 by Stefan Steinmetz (5th generation) and his wife Sammie. Stefan Steinmetz is known for producing wines that reflect the unique characteristics of his historic vineyards and is one of the icons of the Moselle region, which is supported in part by (very) high ratings of his wines from the international wine press.

The Brauneberger vineyards are known for their steep slopes and unique slate soils, which contribute to the characteristic minerality of the wines. The combination of the cool climate and soil conditions ensures slow ripening of the grapes, resulting in complex aromas and refined acidity. Weingut Günther Steinmetz employs a traditional and sustainable approach in both the vineyard and the cellar. The grapes are harvested by hand and undergo spontaneous fermentation without the addition of commercial yeasts.

Origin: Moselle, Germany
Grape variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Style: Red – dry, concentrated, elegant and earthy

The Kestener Paulinsberg Pinot Noir 2022 is a rare and characterful wine from one of the steep, slate-rich slopes of the Moselle. This vineyard gives Pinot Noir a unique expression: a cool climate, fine acidity, aromatic depth, and pronounced terroir. The wine was fermented and aged in barriques (oak barrels), which gives it a subtle oak influence and refined structure.

On the nose, deep aromas of ripe raspberries and blackcurrants emerge, complemented by nuances of bitter chocolate and an earthy undertone. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, compact and still youthful, with refined tannins and a lovely freshness. The balance between fruit and structure is remarkably clean, and the finish is long, mineral, and precise.

This wine is a tribute to classic Burgundy-style Pinot Noir, but with a distinct Moselle identity. Production is extremely limited to just 500 bottles, making it a true connoisseur's wine.

Food and wine pairings

This Pinot Noir combines elegance with structure and is best enjoyed with refined dishes featuring subtle earthy, spicy, or savory notes.

Poultry and game
Think of duck breast with fig compote, quail with roasted root vegetables, or venison carpaccio with mushrooms. The wine pairs seamlessly with the tender meat and enhances the earthy character of the dishes.

Mushrooms and autumn vegetables
Roasted portobello with balsamic vinegar, risotto with porcini mushrooms, or pasta with chanterelles and truffle oil beautifully bring out the earthy, spicy side of the wine.

Lamb with herbs
Lamb leg with rosemary or lamb chops with a thyme crust connect naturally with the warm notes of red fruit and bitter chocolate in the wine.

Medium-matured cheeses
Tomme de Savoie, Morbier, or a mild Comté offer enough texture and flavor to support the ripe fruit and fine tannins without overshadowing the wine.

James Suckling has rated this wine with an impressive score of 95 points. Read the full wine reviews for this wine via the links next to the image. Free service for our customers.

FUN FACT: In the 'Attachments' tab, you will find the official factsheet for this fine wine. We will automatically send this to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount . You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, almost next to the A16, with ample parking. Click here for our address.

What do those stars mean?

At Günther Steinmetz (and also at a few other German manufacturers), the stars are used as a kind of quality indicator based on selection . In short:

• No stars : basic level or standard selection from a vineyard

• * (one star): selection of better grapes, often older vines or riper fruit

• ** (two stars): stricter selection, often higher concentration or lower yield

• *** (three stars): the very best selection , usually from the oldest vines, the best plots and/or the most intensive sorting — often in very small quantities