German Vino: It’s All About the Pinot

Before we dive into the wines, let’s first take a look at this stunning region and understand what makes it just so special. Germany has 13 wine growing regions within its borders, 11 of which are located towards the southwest where they enjoy a slightly more continental climate, and 2 located further north. The region’s terroir is diverse and that really is the key here to producing such varied vino that’s a treat to the taste buds. Soil types vary dramatically throughout giving a wonderful range of flavour profiles.

Rheinhessen is the largest wine growing region here and is home to limestone soils which give wine much fruitier and more elegant flavours. If we head further south to the Baden region you will find more volcanic soils near the Kaiserstuhl mountains, which produces wines with more pronounced smoky flavours and a slightly rustic edge. Or heading north you will find the Mosel region where slate-based soils promote exceptional drainage and result in wines with a distinct mineral nuance.

Being slightly further north than most wine growing regions, Germany enjoys a milder climate. Summers are still moderately warm here, but nights can become much cooler, whilst a long ripening season allows the grapes to retain higher acidity.

The level of rainfall received across most of Germany is also favourable, with rainfall at its highest over summer months before declining later into the ripening process. This is quite different to southern parts of Europe and ultimately contributes to the distinctive style of German vino.

Germany produces a whole host of wines from a number of different grape varieties. Whites are the most popular here thanks to that cooler climate and account for around 60% of all wines produced. However, reds are on the rise and they really are worth getting excited about.

Pinot Noir, known as Spätburgunder in Germany, is one in particular which is increasing in popularity amongst German winemakers. And it’s fair to say it’s good enough to compete with any of the best from France or New World countries. In fact, Germany is the third largest producer globally of this fruity red, after France and the USA, with 29,000 acres of vineyards devoted to this variety.

Spätburgunder is full of red fruit flavours and has slightly higher acidity and less tannins compared to Pinot Noir from elsewhere in the world. As a result, it has a distinct freshness to it, keeping it light and fruit driven. However, of course flavour profiles can vary across regions due to those distinct terroirs and soil types. This keeps Spätburgunder exciting, meaning even the most discerning Pinot Noir drinkers will find one they love here.

Ahr is the most northerly region which grows Pinot Noir, and it’s a real hidden gem. With over half of all vineyards here growing this variety, winemakers really know what they are doing. Ahr is a slate canyon which has a unique microclimate. With steep slopes facing south and southeast, the vines benefit from a sunny growing season. The rocks are able to absorb heat during the day, which is released at night, keeping the vines warm. As a result, Spätburgunder thrives here creating some of the most exceptional wine.

If whites are more your thing, then Germany really is the place to go. Pinot Gris, known as Grauburgunder here, is the perfect crowd pleaser. Similar to Spätburgunder, Germany is also the third largest producer of Grauburgunder, after Italy and France. Although with it accounting for only around 7% of wine produced in the country, it can be difficult to get your hands on.

Most commonly grown in Rheinhessen, Pfalz and Baden, Germany produces a range of styles of Grauburgunder. Typically, the wine is dry and has a higher acidity than perhaps you would expect from a Pinot from other European regions, and more floral, citrusy aromas thanks to that cool climate. The result is a light, refreshing white that’s great for cleansing the palate.

Of course, if a slightly sweeter, bolder, fuller-bodied white is more to your taste then Grauburgunder from Baden could be right up your street. Baden is situated close to river Rhine and is protected by the Black Forest and Vosges mountains, making it the warmest region in Germany. Often Grauburgunder from here is more fragrant and tinged with slightly spicy, exotic notes.

So, if you are looking to discover something a little different, German wine should certainly be on your radar. Full of diversity and versatility, these wines are real crowd pleasers. Of course, there is more than just Spätburgunder and Grauburgunder to discover, so make sure you check out the video below where our buyer, Alex Davies, talks more about German wine. And don’t forget to head over to our website to browse our full range.