Maximin Grünhaus Pinot Blanc
Country: Germany Region: Mosel Vintage: 2020
Category: White Wine Colour: White
Producer: Axel Pauly
Located on steep, south-facing slopes two kilometres from where the river Ruwer meets the Mosel, the estate of Maximin Grünhaus has a history of viticulture that dates back to Roman times. It takes its name from the Abbey of Saint Maximin, a Benedictine monastery which owned the land from the 7th to the 18th century. Passing into French administration under Napoleon and then eventually to the von Schubert family in the late 19th century, the estate is now overseen by sixth-generation family member Maximin Von Schubert, who took over from his father Carl Von Schubert in 2014.
Vineyards:
The first Pinot Blanc vines were planted by Carl von Schubert in 2001. Today, 2 hectares of Pinot Blanc grapes are cultivated in the Herrenberg vineyard classified as VDP.Grosse Lage. This 19 hectare single vineyard shares many characteristics with the famous neighbouring Abtsberg site, including the south-east to south-west orientation and the Devonian slate soils - here with a slight reddish hue - producing wines with extra texture and richness. Toward the rear, Herrenberg is enclosed by the Grüneberg forest and traditionally, tends to be viewed as a cooler and slightly flatter site. However, with the recent shifting climate, Herrenberg is now capable of producing fully ripe Riesling and Pinot Blanc grapes resulting in wines that have achieved distinction in their own right and that will age beautifully over decades.
Vinification:
The hand-harvested grapes underwent skin contact for 30 hours prior to fermentation in stainless steel tanks in order to extract precious Riesling flavours. After a slow, cool, temperature controlled fermentation with natural yeast, the wine was kept on fine lees for five months, which resulted in a more mellow, smooth wine.
Tasting Notes:
The Maximin Pinot Blanc is fresh and tangy with aromas of citrus fruits such as pomelo and white grapefruit. On the palate, it surprises with ripe pear and quince flavours and a hint of white pepper. The acidity is harmoniously integrated with a delicate minerality on the tingling finish
Food Suggestion: Great by itself but also ideal with food. Perfect with slightly spiced dishes like curry and Asian cuisine.
Closure: Stelvin ABV:10.5% Acidity [g/l]: 8.9
