Introduction to Germany Case

Soft, fruity pinot from the Palatinate in Germany. Packed with ripe cherry flavours, light in structure and refreshing, this could be served lightly chilled. Southern Germany is home to a number of co-operatives, this one being especially good. It is also home to endless numbers of grape varieties. The reason is climate: this is easily the warmest part of Germany, where everything is grown.

This Mosel riesling displays mouthwatering acidity along with finesse and floral aromatics. The steep slate slopes of the region are some of the most impressive vineyards in the world and home to some of the most energetic and charming rieslings. The Society`s Mosel Riesling is blended for us by Bischöfliche Weinguter. Owned by the Catholic church, this German winery, based in the centre of ancient Trier, has been getting better and better quality-wise over the past few years and The Wine Society are delighted to be working with them.

Our second vintage of the successful Exhibition Spätburgunder. The cooler 2023 vintage is reflected in a delicate red-berry and strawberry perfume and lots of energy on the palate. Tannins are fine grained and the wine is incredibly well balanced. One of our Wine Society Pioneers for their commitment to sustainable methods, Weingut Eymann is certified organic (one of the first in Germany in 1982) and biodynamic since 2006. Bought-in grapes come from organic growers well-known to the family as friends, and in the vineyards, soils are left largely undisturbed with a cover of mixed seeds of flowers, legumes and weeds, many sown to be bee friendly. Vine waste, local plants and animal waste are composted and used according to Germany’s strict regulations, and water, though not an issue here, only irrigates young vines. In the winery, Rhine water and rainwater is used and solar panels provide energy, all packaging is from recycled sources and lightweight bottles contain the finished product. With biodiversity encouraged by 100 birdhouses, wildflowers and cover crops, trees grown, stone piles built for local lizards and insect ‘hotels’ well positioned, the estate is a haven. And people aren’t forgotten either with a small, well-looked-after permanent staff joined by seasonal workers who return year after year. They work no more than eight-hour days, have apartments to live in, direct payment and a restaurant that serves three-course meals every day. No wonder people return repeatedly, some for up to 30 years!

Weingut Eymann were trailblazers in Germany in working biodynamically, and young winemaker Vincent Eymann is transforming this Pfalz estate into a producer of high-quality, well-made wines while focusing on working with an eye on environmental impact. This pinot gris comes from loess soils in the heart of the village of Gonnheim, producing a wine with great minerality and tension. Fermented and aged in large barrels giving the wine an attractive spice this wine displays lots of apple and ripe pear, and spice. Perfect pairing with soft goat's cheese or white fish dishes.

The co-operative movement has historically been important in Germany and Ruppertsberg is easily one of the best. This full, fruity dry white is made using a majority of silvaner for body and a little riesling for citrusy fruit and grip. A versatile white to be enjoyed with or without food.

Dr Loosen, based in Bernkastel overlooking the Mosel river is one of the most famous estates of the region. A lovely, fresh tasting German riesling from the Mosel and from a lovely, juicy vintage. It shows clean, fruity lines with a little sweetness and lots of freshness and vibrancy. Perfect with a sweet and sour chicken or aromatic duck pancakes with hoisin sauce. The spice is mellowed by the slight sweetness, and the acidity uplifts the palate to give freshness and balance.