Lemberger trocken 2019

Wine Description for Lemberger Dry 2019 from Roterfaden

Colour & Appearance

Luminous cherry red with violet reflections and subtle natural cloudiness – a wine that doesn’t hide its artisanal origins. The increasingly lighter rim indicates the beginning of maturity.

Nose

Here the full complexity of a mature Lemberger reveals itself: restrained, yet multi-layered. Dark berry fruit from morello cherry and blackberry dominates, underpinned by sweet cherry and raspberry. Behind this unfolds a fascinating spectrum of balsamic notes – juniper, white pepper, sage and thyme. Cocoa butter and cocoa nibs lend depth, whilst subtle smokiness and cedarwood provide additional dimension.

Palate

Compact and lean, this Lemberger presents itself with moderate 11.5% alcohol. The crisp acidity structure enlivens without dominating; the fruit remains present, yet never intrusive. Remarkable: practically no tannin, instead a smooth, silky texture. Retronasally, floral notes surprise alongside a nutty, reductive component with green walnut. The earthy, balsamic side carries through the finish.

Finish

Medium length with ethereal and earthy nuances that fade elegantly. The spice remains pleasantly present.

Terroir & Origin

The 20 to 35-year-old vines are rooted in shell limestone soils of Baden-Württemberg. The warm 2019 vintage produced perfectly ripened grapes that today benefit from their power and structure.

Grape Variety & Vinification

Artisanally uncompromising: 50% whole bunch fermentation, only lightly foot-trodden. Long, slow mash fermentation, followed by one year of maturation on full lees in old wooden barrels. Bottled unfiltered, minimally sulphited – a purist natural wine approach that authentically expresses the grape variety.

Food Pairing Recommendations

With braised beef, game dishes or aged hard cheese. The herbal spice harmonises beautifully with Mediterranean braised dishes or mushroom ragouts.

Special Characteristics

A Lemberger that rewards patience. Maturity has done it good – it rests, as it were, within itself. With its restrained character and complex spice, it is the antithesis of a fruit bomb and appeals to lovers of authentic, terroir-driven wines.