Maximin Grunhaus Single Vineyard Pinot Blanc Reserve 2020
Maximin Grunhaus Single Vineyard Pinot Blanc Reserve
Region: Mosel, Germany
Vintage: 2020
Bottle size: 75cl
Grape: Pinot Blanc
ABV: 13.5%
This Pinot Blanc Réserve impresses with its distinctive character. Fresh, juicy ripe pomelo and yellow flower aromas, and a typical lively acidity are wrapped within an elegant shawl of fine creaminess. The palate is enlivened by subtle wood flavours and lifted herbal notes that add finesse and structure to this wine.
The first Pinot Blanc vines were planted by Carl von Schubert in 2001. Today, two 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.
The hand-harvested grapes were transported the short distance to the winery and promptly pressed in a pneumatic press to retain the fruit’s freshness and vibrant fruit characters. The wine underwent fermentation with indigenous yeasts and maturation in 100% new Fuder barrels for a total of 20 months. Made from wood from the estate’s own forests by local coopers, these 1,000 litre vessels contribute lovely spice and a rich structure to the resulting wine.
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.