Weingut Thorle, Saulheimer 1ER Cru, Spatburgunder

Christoph and his brother Johannes have worked together since 2006 when they left their jobs to take over the family Domaine in Saulheim, a little village inland from Oppenheim and the mighty Rhine. The vineyards lie on a mixture of light clay, limestone, red sandy loam and in places flint and schist. All vineyard management is now undertaken organically with a move to biodynamic imminent, a brave step given that a lot of producers still believe this to be akin to witchcraft. In the cellar, the work from the vineyard is continued by allowing natural ferments and minimal handling. 

This 100% Pinot Noir is produced from vines from Spitzenlagen in Saulheim. The harvest was hand-picked to ensure quality throughout. The grapes are then fermented and aged in 100% traditional 225-litre French barriques for 10 months before being bottled, producing wild aromas and intense dark fruits on the nose. The palate delivers structured yet silky tannins, while further notes of herbal mint, liquorice, and cloves add complexity to a long finish.