Alluring, spicy aromas filled with red currants, black cherries, smoked meats, and birch.  Medium weight with soft, supple tannins, and an intensity that is balanced by freshness. Notes of smoke, black cherries and blueberries are followed up by savory, umami notes on the generous finish.

Weingut Zierisen is located in the “three country corner” on the Rhine River at the border of Alsace, Switzerland, and Germany.  The winery is directed by Hanspeter Zierisen and his wife Edel.  Together, they produce pure expressions of Syrah, Pinot Noir, Chasselas, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay. 

They believe that “wines should reflect their provenance as purely as possible,” which is a philosophy that guides their organic practices in the vineyard and cellar.  Although the estate is not certified organic, chemicals are strictly avoided in the vineyards.  German, Swiss, and French grape clones are mixed among the estate vineyards.  Hanspeter adheres to a belief of “controlled idleness,” allowing the wines to ferment spontaneously and create their own paths while he observes and guides the wine from a distance.

These Pinot Noir grapes are sorted in the vineyard at the time of harvest and again in the winery before they begin a 6-8 week maceration before pressing.  Spontaneous fermentation took place in stainless steel vats followed by aging in large, old, oak barrels.  The wine is bottled without filtration.

Soils in Efringen-Kirchen, in the southern part of Baden where the winery is located are made up of Jurassic limestone, similar to what is found in Burgundy.  The climate is moderate with an average temperature of 52°F.

Charcuterie, Cheese, Chicken/Turkey, Duck, Fish-full flavored (salmon/tuna), Ham, Mushrooms, Pork, Roasted Root Vegetables, Vegetables