Dernauer Goldkaul 2022

Wine Description for Dernauer Goldkaul 2022 by Bertram-Baltes

Colour & Appearance

Luminous, pale ruby red with delicate garnet reflections – a Pinot Noir that does not hide its origins from a cool climate and moderate extraction. Crystal clear in the glass.

Nose

Delicate and precise: fresh strawberries and raspberries meet floral notes of rose petals. Beneath this, a fine mineral trace reminiscent of damp slate. With a little air exposure, spicy accents of white pepper and a subtle herbal spice develop.

Palate

At only 11% alcohol, this Pinot displays remarkable elegance and drinkability. The acidity is lively but never intrusive, the texture silky and fine-grained. Red berries dominate, underpinned by a saline minerality that owes to the Goldkaul vineyard site. Nothing loud, nothing exaggerated – instead pure finesse and transparency. The low residual sweetness is perfectly integrated and lends the wine additional smoothness.

Finish

Medium length and invigorating with fine fruit and a hint of stone dust. The freshness remains present and invites the next sip – exactly what a good Pinot should deliver.

Terroir & Origin

The Goldkaul vineyard site in Dernau ranks among the top parcels of the Ahr. Steep slate terraces with southern exposure and cooling influences from the river shape the character of these wines. Julia Bertram and Benny Baltes have managed these demanding vineyards organically since their return to the Ahr, with the goal of biodynamic certification.

Grape Variety & Vinification

100% Pinot Noir, vinified in the style of the new Ahr generation: restrained extraction, gentle maturation, focus on finesse rather than power. The moderate alcohol content is deliberately chosen and underscores the winemaking couple’s philosophy – wines with drinking pleasure and expression rather than opulence.

Food Pairing Suggestions

A versatile companion to grilled salmon, duck breast roasted pink, mushroom risotto or Coq au Vin. Also an excellent choice with hard cheese of medium maturity.

Special Features

The first vintage under the sole direction of Julia Bertram and Benny Baltes at the Ahr – and already a statement for elegant, terroir-focused Pinot Noir. A promising start to a new chapter at the Ahr.