Knipser Estate Spätburgunder Kalkmergel 2018

Try the Kalkmergel 2018 Spätburgunder. It reveals a vibrant ruby red in the glass, with orange reflections. The nose is inviting, with ripe raspberries, a hint of vanilla, and subtle spices. On the palate, it's juicy, round, with soft tannins, a distinct minerality, and a touch of residual sweetness. It's a wine for anyone who appreciates quality.

The Spätburgunder, also known as Pinot Noir, thrives in the vineyards of Weingut Knipser in the Palatinate region, which are characterised by Kalkmergel soils. This area offers ideal conditions: soils rich in limestone with a layer of up to 20cm, steep slopes, and a sunny aspect. The grapes primarily come from the prestigious Großkarlbacher Burgweg site. The winemakers ensure excellent quality with elegance and harmony.

Weingut Knipser in Laumersheim has a long history, with the family operating the winery since 1876. Brothers Heinz and Werner were pioneers in bottled wine and Barrique techniques. They focus on quality and craftsmanship. Today, Stephan runs the winery. The wines have received numerous awards and are legendary in Germany and Europe.

The Palatinate: Home of Spätburgunder

The Palatinate is Germany’s second-largest wine-growing region. Spätburgunder thrives particularly well here. The soils are limestone-rich, the slopes are steep, and they face south. The climate is mild, ideal for vineyards. The winemakers here have tradition and expertise. The wines are diverse, but always full of character.

A layer of Kalkmergel in the soil ensures ideal water retention and drainage. The steep slopes and southern exposure promote grape ripening. The Palatinate is known for its mineral-driven wines, often with a fine acidity and an elegant structure. This region is a hotspot for wine lovers seeking depth and complexity.

The Großkarlbacher Burgweg site is particularly distinctive. It is located in the northern Palatinate and is characterised by limestone. Grapes from this site are often particularly ripe and intense. The Palatinate offers a variety of sites, each with its own unique character and structure.

Weingut Knipser: History and Quality

Weingut Knipser stands for excellence. The family from Laumersheim has been operating a vineyard since 1876. Brothers Heinz and Werner were pioneers in bottled wine and Barrique techniques. They focus on quality and craftsmanship. Today, Stephan runs the winery. The wines have received numerous awards and are legendary in Germany and Europe.

Pioneering Barrique maturation has contributed to what makes this wine so special. The grapes are carefully selected, the harvest is done by hand, and maturation takes place in Barriques and oak barrels. The winemakers pay attention to low yields and thoughtful vineyard management. The results are often marked by great elegance and harmony.

Weingut Knipser is an exceptional winery that has completely convinced three leading German wine guides. The wines are known not only in Germany but also throughout Europe. The Knipser family has specialized in the production of red wines, often of international top quality.

Enjoyable Spätburgunder

Spätburgunder is the German version of Pinot Noir. It is elegant, delicately fruity, and versatile. It can be spicy or juicy. This cuvée shows a harmonious and mild character. It’s the ideal accompaniment to many dishes and brings depth and substance to every glass.

The Kalkmergel 2018 Spätburgunder is an example of the wine’s ability to prove itself in various contexts. It pairs well with fine cuvées of the best Pinot Noir wines and is highly praised by experts. The aromas of raw beef and smoked ham complement each other wonderfully. It’s an all-rounder for every palate.

The wine is dry, meaning it has no residual sweetness. The acidity is fine and structured, which makes it pleasant to drink. The tannins are soft and elegant, making it an ideal choice for connoisseurs.

Food Pairing: What goes with it?

It pairs wonderfully with dishes like Spätzle or pork steak. Poultry and cheese also benefit from its elegance. The notes of vanilla and espresso make it a special treat. It’s an all-rounder for every palate.

The Kalkmergel 2018 Spätburgunder is particularly good with Asian poultry or game. The aromas of raw beef and smoked ham complement the wine’s subtle notes perfectly. It’s also an excellent accompaniment to cheese, especially mild and mature varieties.

The wine also pairs well with dishes with a fine acidity, such as salad or fish. The mineral notes of the wine complement the freshness of the dishes and create a balanced enjoyment.

Quality: What the experts say

The wine has been rated several times. Experts praise its balance and elegance. It’s an example of German winemaking artistry. It’s an everybody’s darling – for anyone who appreciates quality and taste. A true classic of the Palatinate.

Ratings from wine guides such as Eichelmann, Der Feinschmecker, and Gault Millau confirm the wine’s high quality. The wine has been awarded the highest rating in the past. The Knipser family has made a name for themselves with this wine, extending beyond the borders of Germany.

The Kalkmergel 2018 Spätburgunder is a testament to the skills of the winemakers at Weingut Knipser. The combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques has resulted in a wine that delights both novices and connoisseurs.

Value for Money

It costs around £22. For such quality, that’s more than fair. It offers everything a good German wine should. It’s a drop that has something for every connoisseur.

The price of £22 is appropriate for the quality of the wine. It’s an example of the ability to market a wine at a price that is attractive to both novices and connoisseurs. The ratings of the wine guides confirm that the wine is an exception in this price category.

The Kalkmergel 2018 Spätburgunder is a wine suitable for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. It’s a drop that embodies the diversity and quality of the Palatinate.

Conclusion

The Kalkmergel 2018 Spätburgunder is more than just a wine. It’s a journey through the Palatinate, through the history of Weingut Knipser, and through the aromas of raspberry and vanilla. It’s a wine for anyone who values quality and taste. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed.

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