Wittmann Spätburgunder Trocken 2022

Weingut Wittmann makes this dry Spätburgunder, the German name for Pinot Noir, from biodynamically farmed vineyards on the left bank of the Rhine in Rheinhessen. Philipp Wittmann began converting his estate to biodynamics in the 1980s, well ahead of most of Germany, and the wines carry the freshness and detail that this cool, continental site allows. Limestone and clay soils and a relatively cool growing season preserve acidity and give the Pinot Noir its bright red fruit and fine, savoury structure. The wine is fermented and then aged eighteen months in barrel, where measured oxygen exchange through the wood builds texture and adds a light cedar and spice frame without masking the fruit. The colour is a deep red with violet highlights. The nose shows juicy cherry, ripe plum and a subtle hint of strawberry over earth and gentle oak spice. The palate is medium bodied, with crisp acidity, fine-grained tannins and a fresh, savoury red-fruited finish. Serve at 15 to 16 degrees, ideally from a wide glass. It pairs well with roast duck, chicken and mushroom dishes.