# Spätburgunder Kabinett Trocken (2023)

- **Producer:** Koehler-Ruprecht
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Spätburgunder
- **Region:** Pfalz, Germany
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €16
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** cherry, raspberry, strawberry, redcurrant, smoke, cloves

## About this wine

Koehler-Ruprecht is one of the most historic and distinctive estates in the Pfalz region of Germany, famed for its uncompromisingly traditional winemaking. Located in the village of Kallstadt, the estate rejects modern trends in favor of long aging in large, neutral oak casks. This Spätburgunder Kabinett Trocken represents their entry-level red, showcasing the cooler-climate elegance of German Pinot Noir. It is a testament to the estate's philosophy of letting the terroir and vintage speak clearly without cosmetic oak or manipulation.

## Interesting facts

- Koehler-Ruprecht is legendary for its adherence to traditional winemaking, refusing to use modern temperature-controlled stainless steel.
- The estate is famous for its Kallstadter Saumagen vineyard, but this Kabinett offers an accessible gateway to their unique style.
- Spätburgunder is the German name for Pinot Noir, and the Pfalz region is one of its premier strongholds in Germany.

## Food pairing

This light-bodied, high-acid Spätburgunder pairs beautifully with dishes that match its elegance and bright acidity. It cuts through the richness of fatty fish like salmon or duck breast, while its earthy undertones complement mushrooms and roasted poultry. Avoid heavy, highly tannic meats or intense spices that would overwhelm its delicate structure.

## Wine making process

The grapes are hand-harvested from estate vineyards in Kallstadt. Fermentation occurs spontaneously using native yeasts in large, neutral German oak casks (Halbstück and Stück). The wine undergoes malolactic fermentation and is aged in these traditional casks to allow gentle micro-oxygenation without imparting dominant oak flavors. It is bottled with minimal filtration and a light sulfur addition to preserve its vibrant, mineral-driven character.