It seems that so many of us, especially during the summer, prefer to open a familiar wine that’s perfect with anything you put on the table. Now, it’s time to switch things up a bit and try two wines that are just as food friendly and delicious as those you already love. Spoiler alert? These affordable and easy drinking wines are from Germany.
Lothar is on a mission. Among other endeavors, he wants to concentrate on the “sole expansion of Riesling, the Queen of white grapes,” exchange flat vineyard locations for “steep and steepest locations,” focus on cooler mountain locations to allow for a late harvest and long ripening periods, reduce yields, adjust the vines to climate change by “perfecting foliage work,” increase manual work in the vineyards and implement biodynamic strategies “without the scourge of certification.”
Enticed about what’s in the glass? On the nose of this delightfully fresh wine, I found notes of overripe orchard fruit, petrol, juicy peaches, sage, thyme and brilliant minerality. The palate burst with bright acidity, citrus, mint leaves, herbs, wet chalk, salinity and a touch of sweetness. Ripe, rich and broad, the finish lingered. Weingut Lothar Kettern 2018 Piesporter Goldtropfchen Kabinett pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp, sushi, Thai food, fried chicken or pork shish kabobs. Enjoy!
Photo Credit: Kettern-Riesling.de
When you read or hear “Spatburgunder,” think of Pinot Noir because that’s its name in Germany. Bianka and Daniel Schmitt, two young and talented winemakers, are making biodynamic wines in Rheinhessen, the largest wine growing region of Germany. In the past, the region was known for bulk wine production, but now a new generation of vibrant, enthusiastic growers are focusing on the “undervalued terroir of the region” and reducing yields with as little intervention as possible.
The Weingut Schmitt winery has been in the family for over 200 years and for 10 years, Bianka and Daniel have been cultivating grapes biodynamically on their 16 hectares. In fact, they’re one of only 80 producers in Germany to be Demeter certified. Currently, the duo work with amphorae along with oak barrels and offer a “Natur” line that has no added sulphur.
Schmitt 2016 Spatburgunder Dry Estate Bottled ($17) was as elegant as it was light, fresh and fruit forward. Aromas of green grass, intense herbs, dried red flowers, dark plum and cherry compote were mesmerizing. Food friendly acidity and soft tannic structure enveloped notes of herbs, chocolate, mint and green tea. For pairing, try creamy tomato and basil soup, stuffed mushrooms, or my favorite, mushroom risotto.
Photo Credit: zrswines.com
Prost! ~ Cindy
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