IDIG Königsbach Spätburgunder GG VDP Grosse Lage 2019

The Idig is one of the most excellent vineyards in the Palatinate. Due to its monopoly-like ownership, it represents the core of the Christmann winery. As a court chamber estate of the Palatine electors, the vineyard, which was then held by a high lord, was first mentioned in documents as early as the 14th century. The monopoly-like size of 4 hectares in a prime location, an absolutely unique feature, can be traced back to over 400 years of ownership by the Palatine counts. The vineyard slopes steeply to the south-southeast by Palatinate standards. However, a gentle wind constantly flows down through the Klausental from the Stabenberg, which always keeps the grapes healthy for a long time with its drying effect. The Idig rests on a mighty limestone rock massif that formed from limestone deposits after the Upper Rhine Graben collapsed in the Tertiary period. The topsoil consists of terra fusca, which was formed from lime and clay. The topsoil thus contains countless limestones, but also some basalt, which was brought to the vineyard from the Pechsteinkopf in Forst about 150 years ago by the von Buhl family, the owners at the time. Christmann's Idig Spätburgunder grows in two plots in the upper part of the vineyard. The old vines planted in 1977 provide the basis for this Pinot Noir. This has been supplemented for a few years by a smaller area planted with French clones in 2008.

Harvested on 10 and 13 September 2019, selective hand harvest into small boxes, spontaneous fermentation with 25 % whole clusters, ageing in barrique, until February 2021, 10 % new wood, bottling in May 2021.

Muted garnet red, violet at the core.

The 2019 Spätburgunder Königsbacher Idig Großes Gewächs shows pure finesse and radiant clarity. Lush and finesse-rich at the same time, sour cherry is paired with cassis, raspberry and chalky notes, smoky hints and herbal notes complete its fragrance excellently.

On the tongue, it spreads out with rich fruit, stimulating sour cherry notes and invigorating acidity, its tannin structure is soft and charming. A Pinot with feminine appeal, an exceedingly fine drop that beguiles the senses and harmonises wonderfully with classics from the kitchen.