Mineralstein Pinot Noir 2022

Gerd Stepp

The moderate climate of Pfalz affords Pinot Noir a long Autumn ripening period, perfect for ripening tannins and concentrating flavours whilst still producing fruit that is distinctly varietal, neither ‘green’ nor ‘jammy’. From terraced vineyards of limestone and sandstone, the grapes were hand-picked and partially de-stemmed before transfer to open fermenters. Fermentation starts naturally following a 4-day cold soak and is nudged along gently with Burgundian cultured yeasts. There is no pumping over, but gentle punch-downs take place two or three times each day for delicate colour and tannin extraction. Two thirds of the wine is aged in second and third use French oak barrels, the final third kept in tank for freshness. After twelve months a single, gently filtration takes place prior to bottling.

This Pinot Noir is crafted in what Gerd Stepp calls an ‘international style’ and who are we to disagree, but for us it also boasts a distinctly German style with its subtle, slightly sappy, juicy-fresh finish. This supports deliciously ripe, red cherry fruit character on both the nose and palate, finishing with a little touch of spice. Absolutely delicious and, quite frankly, it makes an awful lot of Burgundy look pretty pointless at two or three times the price!