Wines Baden Weingut am Klotz - Isteiner Spätburgunder - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Weingut am Klotz's 2022 Isteiner Spätburgunder is a delightful red from the heart of Baden, showcasing the finesse of German Pinot Noir. Crafted solely from Spätburgunder (the German name for Pinot Noir), this dry wine reflects the meticulous work in both vineyard and cellar. The 2022 vintage was marked by relatively warm, stable conditions, giving the grapes optimal ripeness while retaining signature freshness. The Isteiner vineyards benefit from the mosaic of soils typical of southern Baden, including limestone and loess, contributing elegance and subtle minerality to the wine. Vinification is usually traditional, with careful sorting, a gentle extraction, and maturation likely in a mix of stainless steel and, to a lesser extent, oak barrels, in order to preserve varietal purity and a supple texture.

Baden stands as Germany's sunniest and warmest wine region, stretching along the eastern bank of the Rhine and bordering Switzerland and France. The vineyards around Istein enjoy a particularly favourable microclimate, shielded by the Black Forest and exposed to Mediterranean-like breezes. The region’s limestone-rich soils are particularly well-suited to Pinot family grapes, having produced highly-regarded Spätburgunder for decades. Historically, Baden has excelled in bridging Burgundian tradition with German precision, producing reds that combine bright fruit, delicate structure, and a gentle earthiness.

This Spätburgunder’s nuanced red berry notes, subtle spice, and silky tannins make it a marvellous companion for poultry like roast duck or guinea fowl, as well as veal medallions with creamy mushroom sauce. Traditional Badenese fare such as Schäufele (smoked pork shoulder), or a classic Flammkuchen with speck and onions, would work beautifully, enhancing both the wine’s fruit and its fine acidity.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine lightly chilled, around 15-16°C. A short decant of 20 minutes can further awaken its aromatic bouquet and refine its gentle structure. Ideal for drinking now, the 2022 Isteiner Spätburgunder promises elegant pleasure over the next few years.