Rings Estate Spätburgunder Saumagen Grand Cru 2021

Germany is increasingly establishing itself as a home for outstanding red wines. The Palatinate, in particular, offers ideal conditions for demanding grape varieties such as Pinot Noir. This wine embodies the connection between tradition and innovation.

Rings, a winery with deep roots in the region, presents a masterpiece of winemaking with this drop. Careful work in the vineyard and cellar defines this Pinot Noir. The Saumagen site, known for its calcareous marl soil, gives the wine a special minerality. The year 2021 gifted the Palatinate with an exceptional balance, resulting in a red wine that is both powerful and elegant.

A Terroir of History and Limestone

The Palatinate is a wine region with a long tradition. Hilly landscapes characterise the scenery, especially in the south. Limestone, clay and marl form the basis for unique wines. Vines benefit from warm summers and mild winters. This combination creates a microclimate ideal for viticulture. Saumagen is one of the most renowned sites in the Palatinate. A small, south-facing valley basin offers optimal protection. Calcareous marl and coarse limestone characterise the soil, which favours filigree and mineral wines.

The site benefits from warmth, wind and nightly coolness – ideal for perfect grape maturity. The Verband der deutschen Prädikatsweingüter (Association of German Quality Wine Estates) confirms the quality. Saumagen is approved for the production of wines with the highest level.

Organic Cultivation for Highest Quality

Weingut Rings relies on organic farming. Principles are consistently implemented. Buckwheat, clover and radish promote root growth and attract beneficial insects. Horse manure serves as a natural fertiliser. Healthy and resilient vines are the result, producing excellent grape material. In harmony with nature, a wine with character is created. Careful work in the vineyard lays the foundation for wine quality.

In the cellar, Steffen and Andreas Rings apply their skill. Hand-selected grapes are the first step, followed by sorting and destemming. Without pumping, berries enter wooden fermentation tanks. Whole, un-destemmed grapes are fermented. Spontaneous fermentation by natural yeasts begins. A short maceration preserves finesse.

Artisanal Maturation in Barriques

18 months of maturation in new and used barriques refine this red wine. Oak barrels release subtle aromas. Careful selection of the wood is crucial to optimally unfold the potential of the Pinot Noir. Hand harvesting is standard at Rings and guarantees the highest quality. Spontaneous fermentation in wooden containers is a sign of respect for nature. Wine is made without unnecessary intervention, creating an authentic expression of the terroir. This Spätburgunder Saumagen Großes Gewächs is an example of artisanal skill that unites tradition and innovation.

Flavour Profile and Sensory Characteristics

A bright garnet red catches the eye. The aroma possesses dark, spicy and fleshy notes. Complex aromas of red and black berries unfold, complemented by cocoa, coffee, tobacco and forest floor. On the palate, firmness and spice are shown, accompanied by juiciness. Pure minerality dominates on the finish. The vitality of the acidity impresses. The wine is at the beginning of its development and will only reach its peak in 10 years. A smoky-wood spice aroma defines the character. This Pinot Noir is an expression of finesse and elegance.

Perfect Accompaniment to Culinary Highlights

This red wine from the Palatinate harmonises perfectly with pasta and beef. It is also an excellent choice with game dishes. The wine’s aromatic diversity complements the dishes in a harmonious way. Hearty dishes require a wine with structure, which this Pinot Noir offers. The wine’s minerality pairs well with fish and seafood. It is also an interesting accompaniment to cheese. Dry wines from Germany are versatile and pair with a wide range of dishes.

Presentation

The 0.75 l bottle presents itself elegantly. A black label is enlivened by golden and red accents. The lettering “PFALZ” can be found at the top in small print. “RINGS” stands large and modern on the label. A golden emblem with a stylised “G” flanks the name. “GG” and “Saumagen” are visible in elegant script. The vintage “2021” and “WEINGUT SEIT 2001” (WINERY SINCE 2001) complete the label. The dark glass shape is typical for wine bottles. The cork is sealed with a golden capsule, on which the winery logo and the name “Rings” can be found. The label combines modernity with tradition. A clear structure emphasises the quality, while elegant script underlines finesse.

Vintage 2021 – a Promising Year

Vintage 2021 gifted the Palatinate with an exceptional balance. Mild winters and a moist spring ensured good water reserves. The summer was warm, but not too hot, allowing the vines to ripen healthily. The harvest time began under ideal conditions. Cool nights preserved the aromas. This created a vintage with great potential. Wines from 2021 are elegant and harmonious and promise long enjoyment.

Großes Gewächs – Highest Quality Level

Großes Gewächs stands for the highest quality level. Wines come from the best sites and are produced according to strict criteria. The VDP sets the guidelines and guarantees the quality. Großes-Gewächs wines are an expression of terroir and craftsmanship. They are often ageable and develop over years. This Spätburgunder Saumagen Großes Gewächs is an example of top-class viticulture.

Price and Availability

This exceptional Pinot Noir is available for around €90. The price is reasonable for the quality and exclusivity. Comparable wines from other regions are often more expensive. Rings offers excellent value for money here. Availability is limited, as demand is high. Anyone who wants to enjoy this wine should order early.

Conclusion

“Weingut Rings Spätburgunder Saumagen Großes Gewächs 2021” is a wine that inspires. It combines tradition, craftsmanship and terroir. The Palatinate shows its potential. The Pinot Noir unfolds its full aromatic diversity. This wine is a pleasure for connoisseurs and lovers. It is perfect for special occasions and is an excellent choice as a gift. Rings has created a masterpiece with this drop, a wine that will be remembered for a long time.

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