2018 Heitlinger Pinot Meunier Reserve, Baden, Germany

ABOUT THIS WINE

The grapes come from young, organically cultivated vineyards in Grand Cru and Premier Cru sites. Significantly reduced oak aging, a slight reduction in volume, a firm and invigorating acidity, and a surprisingly dense structure for the young vines guarantee a perfect addition to the Heitlinger range. Positioned just below the Grand Cru wines, they represent a distinctive and highly individual style.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Founded in 1960, Heitlinger is Burg Ravensburg's mirror image: 85% of plantings in Burgundy varieties (Spätburgunder, Grauburgunder, Weißburgunder, Auxerrois, Chardonnay), with Riesling reduced to a minor role. The vineyards sit high on marls and sandstone around 210 million years old that turn white, purple, red, and variegated within a few hundred meters. Oak for some of the estate's barrels is harvested from its own hill above the Grosse Lage Eichelberg. Together, Heitlinger and Burg Ravensburg farm a combined 115 hectares biodynamically, and their ability to offer a comprehensive range at that scale and quality is reminiscent of Austrian estates like Bründlmayer and Schloss Gobelsburg.

As early as the 12th century, the Cistercians discovered the unique conditions of the Kraichgau's calcareous hills. Here, Burgundy grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, and Auxerrois find ideal growing conditions, just as they do in their French homeland. To this day, Heitlinger, with more than 80 percent of its vineyard area dedicated to this fascinating heritage, embodies it.