Auxerrois Quarz und Lehm 2025

Wine Description for Auxerrois Quartz and Clay 2025 by Michael Andres

Character

Michael Andres from the Palatinate dedicates himself to this Auxerrois, a grape variety that still leads a shadowy existence in Germany – unjustly so. The wine from the 2025 vintage presents itself as dry and distinctly mineral, as the name „Quartz and Clay“ already suggests. Auxerrois combines the fullness of a Pinot Blanc with the freshness of a Silvaner, without becoming obtrusive. A wine that convinces through subtlety and drinkability.

Terroir & Origin

The Palatinate, Germany’s second-largest wine region, offers ideal conditions for this Burgundian grape variety. The vineyard site name „Quartz and Clay“ refers to the geological duality of the soil: whilst quartz components provide minerality and tension, the clay lends the wine structure and substance. This soil formation is typical of the middle Haardt and significantly shapes the wine’s character. The mild Palatinate climate with its high hours of sunshine enables physiological ripeness at moderate alcohol levels.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Auxerrois, a natural cross between Heunisch and Pinot, is often underestimated. The variety yields moderate crops and is less prone to oxidation than Pinot Blanc. Michael Andres likely works with spontaneous fermentation and restrained intervention to bring out the terroir-specific characteristics. The dry vinification emphasises the natural acidity structure and the stone fruit aromas of the grape variety. Typical notes include pear, apple and a fine herbal spice.

Food Pairing Recommendations

The versatility of Auxerrois makes it an ideal food companion. Excellent with pan-fried sea fish, scallops or crayfish. The mineral structure harmonises perfectly with goat’s cheese and asparagus. Also an excellent choice with poultry in cream sauce or veal schnitzel. The wine’s understated nature allows the cuisine to take centre stage, whilst maintaining its own presence.