Wines Aargau PDO Baumgartner Weingut - Pinot Gris Raihalde - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The Baumgartner Weingut Cuvée Pinot Gris Raihalde 2023 from the Aargau AOC in Switzerland is an elegant expression of the region’s terroir. Made exclusively from Pinot Gris grapes, this cuvée is crafted in the 2023 vintage, a year noted for its balanced climatic conditions across Switzerland, yielding wines of precise freshness and aromatic clarity. Baumgartner Weingut pays close attention to vinification, employing gentle pressing and cool-temperature fermentation in inert vessels, allowing the Pinot Gris’s varietal character to shine. Expect a dry white wine, displaying a pale straw hue. On the nose, you’ll find subtle aromas of pear, white peach, and elderflower, accompanied by faint hints of almond and mineral undertones. The palate is fresh and lively, with a touch of creaminess, a nuanced citrus backbone, and a lingering, subtly saline finish—a hallmark of well-made Swiss Pinot Gris.

Aargau is an often-overlooked gem within the Swiss wine landscape. Nestled in the north, the region benefits from a temperate continental climate, moderated by the nearby Jura Mountains and the cooling influence of the River Aare. Its diverse soils—composed primarily of limestone, clay, and moraine—lend structure and finesse to the wines. While Aargau’s viticultural roots go back to the Roman era, producers today combine centuries-old traditions with modern techniques, resulting in authentic, terroir-driven wines. The focus on sustainability and minimal intervention underlines the region’s commitment to quality.

This Pinot Gris is highly versatile when it comes to pairings. It will beautifully complement freshwater fish such as trout meunière or pike-perch with a citrus-butter sauce, echoing the local cuisine. Soft cheeses like Tomme Vaudoise or young Gruyère bring out the wine’s gentle creaminess, while chicken fricassée with garden herbs or a vegetable risotto will harmonise with its bright acidity and elegant fruit profile.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C. This allows its citrus notes and delicate bouquet to emerge fully, while retaining its refreshing structure. A young, vibrant Pinot Gris such as this can be enjoyed now for its aromatic purity or cellared short-term to develop a touch more complexity.