Bertram - Baltes Pinot Noir Dernauer Hardtberg 2021

Bertram - Baltes Spätburgunder Dernauer Hardtberg 2021 is a remarkable red wine. It hails from the Ahr region in Germany, known for its excellent Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) wines. This wine impresses with its elegance and clear character. Every sip of this quality wine is a delight. The vines grow on soils of greywacke and slate, which give the wine its distinctive minerality. The aging process takes place in large oak barrels, adding extra complexity to the wine.

Origin and Special Features

The Ahr region is one of the smaller wine-growing areas in Germany, but it is world-renowned for its Spätburgunder. The Dernauer Hardtberg site has a southern exposure. The vineyards are situated on unweathered Devonian rock, with greywacke and slate shaping the soil. These conditions bestow a unique character to the grapes. Vines from the early 1980s provide the grapes for this wine. Hand-sorted and carefully processed, this results in a wine of the highest quality.

Character of the Wine

Bertram - Baltes Spätburgunder Dernauer Hardtberg 2021 displays a medium-strong garnet color in the glass. The bright rim indicates the youth of the wine. The nose is dominated by red berries, smoky notes, and wet slate. On the palate, the wine is precise and cool. Red fruit aromas harmonize with ripe acidity and pronounced tannins. The wine is full-bodied and robust, with impressive length and minerality. The texture is strong and robust. Some exposure to air benefits the wine, allowing its reductive notes to dissipate and revealing its full elegance.

Occasions and Food Pairings

This Spätburgunder is suitable for special occasions like a romantic dinner or a festive family meal. It pairs perfectly with braised kid, particularly when served with rosehip jam. It also complements game dishes and hearty stews. The fine acidity and tannins work well with rich meats. Light earthy notes and smokiness pair well with grilled vegetables. Cheese platters also benefit from the wine's complexity.

Processing and Aging

At Bertram - Baltes, the grapes are carefully selected. Some grapes remain whole clusters while others are destemmed. This is followed by cold maceration. Spontaneous fermentation occurs with the estate's own yeasts. Aging takes place in large oak barrels, adding further depth and complexity to the wine. A minimal addition of sulfur stabilizes the wine, and no further additives or filtration are used. This preserves the natural character of the wine. The 0.75-liter bottle is perfect for enjoying with a partner or a small group.

Quality and Price

Bertram - Baltes Spätburgunder Dernauer Hardtberg 2021 is a quality wine. The price of €48 is justified for a wine of this high quality. The careful processing and old-vine grapes justify the price. The wine offers excellent value for money and is an investment in a special tasting experience.

Regional Specialties

The Ahr region is known for its picturesque vineyards, steep slopes, and mild climate, which offer ideal conditions for wine growing. The soils of slate and greywacke give the wines a unique minerality. The region is very popular among wine lovers, providing not only fantastic wines but also stunning landscapes. Hiking trails and wine festivals make the region a popular destination.

Vintage 2021

The 2021 vintage is characterized by its freshness and elegance. The weather in 2021 was ideal for viticulture, with cool nights and warm days promoting flavor development. The wine has high acidity and clear fruit aromas, making it particularly lively and exciting.

Conclusion

Bertram - Baltes Spätburgunder Dernauer Hardtberg 2021 is an outstanding red wine. Its fine minerality and elegant structure make it unique. The Ahr region offers ideal conditions for Spätburgunder. The careful aging process and hand-harvesting of the grapes ensure the highest quality. The wine pairs well with many occasions and dishes, especially game dishes and hearty meals. The price of €48 is reasonable for the quality offered. A wine that will delight any wine connoisseur.

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