Gantenbein Pinot Noir 2018
Gantenbein · Mittelhauser, Graubünden, Switzerland
At a glance
- Producer
- Gantenbein
- Region
- Mittelhauser, Graubünden, Switzerland
- Grape variety
- Pinot Noir
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Medium-bodied and Earthy
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $90-$120
Tasting profile
Fresh red cherry, raspberry, subtle earth, slight herbal notes, and minerality. Medium-bodied palate with supple tannins and restrained oak.
Evolution: With aging, expect more complex earthy, forest floor and spice notes, integration of oak, and silky texture development.
At peak: Refined complexity of red fruit, savory underbrush, silky tannins with length.
Structure
- Acidity
- Vibrant, lively acidity typical of alpine terroir
- Tannins
- Fine-grained and medium plus
- Alcohol
- 13.5%
- Aging potential
- Excellent for up to 15 years due to balance of acidity, tannins, and terroir expression
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2026 to 2050
- Optimal window
- 2023 to 2053
- Current status
- Approaching early drinking window but best with some further aging
- Current condition
- The wine is showing robust structure with fresh acidity and primary fruit, benefiting from some decanting when young.
The wine’s structure with balanced tannins and acidity, combined with its alpine mountain terroir and producer’s meticulous approach, supports a long aging window typical for top Swiss Pinot Noir from Gantenbein.
Food pairing
Ideal with game birds, mushroom risotto, roasted pork tenderloin, and mature cheeses.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 15-17°C / 59-63°F
- Decant
- Yes (30-45 minutes) — Helps open the wine's aromatic profile and soften tannins when young.
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 8/10
Water conservation measures, use of solar energy at estate, minimal intervention in winemaking, natural yeast fermentations, eco-friendly packaging
Gantenbein is known for its commitment to organic viticulture without synthetic chemicals, energy-efficient winery operations, and environmentally conscious packaging. Though not biodynamic, their practices reduce chemical inputs and preserve biodiversity. Regular sustainability audits are part of estate operations.