August Kesseler Cuvée Max Pinot Noir 2019

August Kesseler has run his Rheingau estate since 1977, turning a bulk operation into one of Germany's respected names for both Riesling and Pinot Noir. Cuvée Max is his dry, approachable Pinot Noir, grown on the slopes of the Rheingau where slate and loam soils and a cool continental climate suit the grape. The cool climate and long, slow ripening give German Pinot Noir its bright acidity and red fruit character, while the site adds an earthy, mineral backbone. The wine is aged for 24 months in foudres, large old oak casks that exchange oxygen slowly and add little wood flavour, softening the tannins and building texture without covering the fruit. It is medium bodied and dry, with ripe cherry, raspberry and a little plum, an earthy, gently spiced depth and a smooth, rounded palate. The tannins are fine and the finish is fresh and savoury. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees in a wide glass. It pairs well with duck, roast poultry and mushrooms.