At a glance

Producer

Weingut Knipser

Region

Pfalz, Germany

Grape variety

Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$30-$45

Tasting profile

Ripe red cherry, raspberry, subtle spice, minerality, with a hint of oak

Evolution: Fruit will soften with time, developing forest floor, mushroom, and savory notes

At peak: Complex bouquet of red and forest fruits with elegant earth and nuanced oak integration

Structure

Acidity

Medium to high acidity balancing fruit and structure

Tannins

Medium to firm, silky texture

Alcohol

13.0-13.5% ABV

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2036

Optimal window

2022 to 2039

Current status

Ready to drink, with good development ongoing

Current condition

Youthful fruit with firm structure, evolving complexity

The Clona parcel and Knipser's careful vinification yield a structured Spätburgunder with ripe tannins and acidity to support a decade-plus aging window. The 2017 vintage is warm but balanced, allowing development of complex tertiary aromas over the next 5-10 years. Peak drinking starts around 7-8 years post vintage, with gradual maturation expected through 2030.

Food pairing

Grilled salmon, roast duck, mushroom risotto, soft cheeses, roasted root vegetables, game birds

Serving

Serving temperature

15-16°C / 59-61°F

Decant

Yes (30-60 minutes) — To soften tannins and reveal complex aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of precision viticulture, integrated pest management, energy-efficient winery operations, water conservation measures in vineyard, lightweight bottles for reduced packaging impact

Weingut Knipser demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability through careful vineyard management and energy use reduction but lacks full organic or biodynamic certification. The local sourcing and responsible production methods lower environmental impact, though international distribution has a moderate carbon footprint.