Markgraf von Baden - Pinot Noir Baden VDP.GUTSWEIN dry dry 2023

Here is a detailed report on the 2023 Pinot Noir from Markgraf von Baden - a dry VDP.Gutswein that presents the strengths of Baden Pinot production in a lively way.

🔍 Profile & core information

🍷 Wine description & flavour profile

The 2023 Bodensee Pinot Noir shows its accessible and fruit-driven side without sacrificing elegance:

• Colour: Bright, light ruby red.

• Nose: Seductive bouquet of ripe red fruit: sour cherry, redcurrant, fresh raspberry and subtle hints of vanilla.

• Palate: Dry and well-structured, yet smooth and round.

• Acidity & tannins: The acidity is fine and lively, the tannins are fine-grained and ripe - it is the interplay that makes this wine so balanced and accessible.

📌S imilarities & differences: The winery offers different quality levels. While the "1112 Pinot Noir" described here (a lower-priced entry-level line) can appear a little more rustic, the "Bodensee Pinot Noir VDP.Gutswein" stands for a significant increase in finesse, balance and authenticity. The latter clearly shows the terroir character of the Lake Constance region and is often described as very balanced with fine tannins.

👨‍🌾 The Markgraf von Baden Winery

The Markgraf von Baden winery looks back on a long history steeped in tradition. The roots of viticulture in the family go back to the year 1112. The estate is a member of the VDP (Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter), an association of top wine estates in Germany.

The philosophy

The philosophy of the winery is to emphasise the special characteristics of the Baden wine regions. Special emphasis is placed on the Burgundy varieties. The focus of the work is on bringing the "unique, clear and elegant character" of this grape variety to life in Baden.

Latest news

The winery is undergoing a strategic reorientation. The winery has announced that it will focus more on the supermarket wine business in future, which accounts for around 94% of sales. In November 2024, the family announced plans to clear 60 hectares of its vineyards on Lake Constance. In addition, the wine line under the estate name "Markgraf von Baden" is to be discontinued with the 2024 vintage.

🏆 Reviews & awards

The wine has already attracted the attention of wine critics.

• Falstaff (Germany) - Ulrich Sautter: The 2023 Bodensee Pinot Noir (VDP.Gutswein) scored 89+ Falstaff points.

• Award (Falstaff, 2024):Sautter describes a "fine, fresh nose of bright fruit, pear and peach, but also white flowers, ripe apple" and attests to a "fresh juice", a "lively acidity" and a "brightly fruity, focussed flow" on the palate.

🍽️ Drinking recommendation & serving suggestions

• Drinking temperature: 15-18 °C.

• Ageing potential: This wine is made for immediate enjoyment and will retain its fresh character for 2-3 years.

• Food pairing:

  • Roast duck breast with mangetout.

  • Boeuf Bourguignon / braised beef.

  • Veal boiled beef with beans and tomatoes.

  • Grilled beef, lamb or strong cheese.

📝 Conclusion

The 2023 Markgraf von Baden Pinot Noir is an excellent example of a modern, dry German red wine. It is a very well-made, characterful red wine that is offered at a fair price.

The possible discontinuation of the brand in 2024 makes this vintage something special - it could be one of the last opportunities to enjoy this estate wine in this form.