At a glance

Producer

Wasenhaus

Region

Baden, Germany

Grape variety

Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$110 (USD, international retail range)

Tasting profile

Red cherry, wild strawberry, hints of cranberry, subtle herb and forest floor, delicate earthy notes, light oak influence.

Evolution: Will gain increased complexity, mushroom and sous-bois, with tertiary spice as it ages.

At peak: Elegant, silky, complex with layered red fruit and forest undergrowth, gentle structure and superb freshness.

Structure

Acidity

Bright, marked but balanced

Tannins

Fine-grained, moderate

Alcohol

Moderate (typically 12-13%)

Aging potential

Excellent for a German Pinot, 6-8 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2028

Optimal window

2024 to 2030

Current status

Approachable now, but youthful

Current condition

Vibrant, fresh, showing primary fruit and minimal development

Wasenhaus is renowned for making site-expressive Pinot Noir with a Burgundian sensibility, emphasizing energy and transparency over weight. 2022’s warm, generous vintage gives early appeal, but careful cellaring will yield additional nuance and textural polish.

Food pairing

Seared duck breast, roast chicken, mushroom risotto, or aged alpine cheeses.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Dry-farming, cover cropping, zero herbicides/pesticides, high biodiversity, low-intervention in winery, bottles lightweight glass, recycled materials for labels and cartons, gravity flow where possible.

Wasenhaus employs rigorous organic and mostly biodynamic practices in both vineyard and cellar, emphasizing gentle manual work and biodiversity. The estate avoids synthetic inputs and minimizes energy use, using lightweight glass and minimal packaging. Their commitment to local sales, careful resource management, and natural vinification make them one of Germany’s leading sustainable winegrowers. Shipping to non-EU countries adds carbon cost, but overall, the estate’s operations are highly environmentally responsible.