Lemberger trocken 2020

Wine description for Lemberger dry 2020 from Roterfaden

Character

With just 11% alcohol, this Lemberger from Roterfaden reveals a refreshingly different side of Württemberg’s flagship variety. Here, it’s not about power and concentration, but about drinkability and elegance. The moderate alcohol content points to a deliberate stylistic choice – earlier harvest, cooler vineyard sites or a general commitment to lightness. A wine that follows the current trend towards fresher, less alcohol-driven red wines whilst not denying the variety’s characteristic spicy fruit of Blaufränkisch.

Terroir & Origin

Baden-Württemberg, particularly the Württemberg wine region, is the German home of Lemberger. Here, between the Neckar and Rems rivers, on Keuper soils with marl and sandstone, the variety finds ideal conditions. The continental climate with warm summers and cool nights ensures the balance between ripeness and freshness. The 2020 vintage was characterised by warmth in Germany, yet the low alcohol level suggests a cooler individual vineyard site or a deliberately early harvest date.

Grape variety & Vinification

Blaufränkisch, traditionally called Lemberger in Württemberg, is a demanding variety with origins in the Austro-Hungarian region. It typically brings dark cherry fruit, peppery spice and a vibrant acidity structure. At this moderate alcohol level, one can expect an approachable, unpretentious style – possibly with shorter skin contact time and ageing in neutral vessels to preserve fruitiness. Roterfaden appears to be aiming for a wine for uncomplicated enjoyment here.

Food pairing suggestions

The moderate structure makes this Lemberger an ideal companion for lighter meat dishes: veal schnitzel, Maultaschen in broth, roasted poultry or onion roast beef. It also harmonises beautifully with grilled vegetables, mushroom ragout or spicy lentil dishes. Swabian cuisine finds its perfect wine partner here – uncomplicated, authentic, down-to-earth.