Wines Baden Borell-Diehl - Spätburgunder trocken Pfalz - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The Borell-Diehl Cuvée Spätburgunder trocken 2023 from Baden is a dry red wine crafted from Spätburgunder, the German name for Pinot Noir. This vintage, originating from vineyards in Baden, showcases the grape’s refined character when grown in Germany’s warmest winemaking region. The 2023 harvest, with its generally favourable growing conditions, results in a wine that balances ripe red fruit—cherries and raspberries—with subtle notes of earth and spice typical of this variety. Vinified as a “trocken” (dry) cuvée, the wine demonstrates freshness and elegance, underpinned by soft tannins and a lively acidity, all hallmarks of a well-made Spätburgunder.

Baden, stretching along the Rhine on the eastern side of the Black Forest, is one of Germany’s premier wine regions. The climate here is remarkably mild, benefiting from protection offered by the Vosges mountains to the west and the Black Forest to the east. This warmth, combined with diverse soils—loess, clay, and volcanic origins—provides an ideal environment for the cultivation of Spätburgunder, allowing the grapes to ripen fully and express a depth of fruit rarely matched elsewhere in the country. Baden’s winemaking tradition dates back to Roman times, with contemporary producers refining their approach to highlight both the terroir and the unique characteristics of the grape.

This Spätburgunder is especially food-friendly. Its delicate structure and crisp acidity make it an excellent companion to roasted poultry, such as duck breast with cherry sauce, or pork tenderloin with autumn vegetables. For a regional touch, consider pairing it with Baden specialities like Black Forest ham or a classic Flammkuchen. Soft cheeses, mushroom dishes, and lightly grilled salmon also suit the wine’s subtle complexity.

For the best tasting experience, serve the Borell-Diehl Cuvée Spätburgunder trocken 2023 slightly chilled, ideally at 14-16°C. Decanting for thirty minutes before serving can help bring out its aromatic finesse. This temperature allows the wine’s fruit and spice notes to shine while keeping the palate vibrant and refreshing.