Margrave of Baden - Durbacher Schloß Staufenberg Klingelberger Riesling dry dry VDP.ERSTE LAGE 2020

Margrave of Baden - Durbacher Schloß Staufenberg Klingelberger Riesling dry VDP.ERSTE LAGE 2020

1. Winery and history

The vineyards of Schloss Staufenberg in Durbach belong to the traditional Markgraf von Baden winery. The estate is a member of the Association of German Prädikat Wine Estates (VDP) and cultivates around 25 hectares of vines in the Ortenau region.

Staufenberg Castle itself towers around 380 metres above Durbach in the Ortenau region.Margrave Carl Friedrich von Baden had the first single-varietal Riesling vines planted on the Klingelberg back in 1782- a historic step that laid the foundation for the Klingelberg's current reputation. This was the first single-varietal vineyard in the whole of Baden and made the Klingelberg the oldest single-varietal Riesling vineyard in Baden. This is why Riesling is still referred to as "Klingelberger" in Ortenau today .

The winery operates two cellar locations: in Schloss Salem for the wines from Lake Constance and in Schloss Staufenberg itself for the Ortenau wines.

2. Origin and terroir: The Klingelberg

The wine comes from the VDP.ERSTE LAGE DurbacherSchloss Staufenberg. The centrepiece of this site is the Klingelberg, a 2.5-hectare steep slope planted exclusively with Riesling.

The terroir is characterised by weathered granite soils, which provide a pronounced minerality.At over 400 metres above sea level, Klingelberg is one of the highest Riesling vineyards in Germany. The vines here benefit from a southern exposure, which allows for good ripening despite the altitude. The climatic conditions are ideal thanks to the sheltered location between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains.

3. Character and description of the wine

3.1. wine type and style

This is a dry white wine made from the Riesling grape variety. In contrast to the Grosses Gewächs, this wine is classified as a VDP Erste Lage and represents the upscale, terroir-influenced wine culture in Baden.

3.2. vinification

The grapes are harvested by hand and gently processed. The wine is matured in stainless steel tanks, which brings out the fruit flavours and fine acid structure of the Riesling.

3.3. technical details

• Alcohol content: 13.5 % vol.

• Residual sugar: approx. 7 g/l

• Price range: 20 - 50 €

3.4. tasting notes

The wine presents itself in the glass in a bright light yellow colour with greenish reflections.

• On the nose: An aroma of peach stone, damp sand, some citrus and herbs - not a very open, but already complex aroma.

• On the palate: The wine is supported by a present sweetness that combines with a seamlessly round fullness and creaminess. The acidity is ripe, but carries the wine very well. This is all accompanied by a fine, mineral extract that gives the wine depth and length.

3.5. ratings

The wine was awarded93 Falstaff pointsby Ulrich Sautter (Falstaff) . In the Falstaff ranking of the best Rieslings of the 2020 vintage from Baden, it occupies one of the top places, underlining its outstanding quality.

4. Recommendations for enjoyment

4.1. serving temperature

A drinking temperature of 8-10 °Cis recommended to bring out the full flavour and freshness of the wine.

4.2. food pairing

The wine is a versatile companion and harmonises excellently with:

• Fish dishes and seafood

• Poultry and white meat

• Asian dishes such as sushi or light curry dishes

• Asparagus and ham

4.3. ageing potential

Thanks to its structure and balanced acidity, this wine has good ageing potential for at least 5-8 years after harvest. During this time, it will gain in complexity.

4.4. occasion and suitability

The wine is suitable both as a sophisticated everyday wine for special meals and as a representative wine for guests. It is an excellent example of the high quality of Baden Rieslings from first-class vineyards.

5. Conclusion

The Markgraf von Baden - Durbacher Schloß Staufenberg Klingelberger Riesling trocken VDP.ERSTE LAGE 2020 is a wine with history, character and class.

It masterfully combines the potential of the historic Klingelberg terroir with the long experience of the House of Baden. The 93 Falstaff pointsare a clear signal of its high quality: it is not a wine for a quick thirst, but a complex, profound Riesling that combines multi-layered flavours of peach and citrus with a creamy texture and fine minerality. Anyone who appreciates the elegance and expression of a great Baden Riesling will enjoy this wine - and at a fair price compared to many other top Rieslings.