Schlossberg Achkarren Spätburgunder GG 2024

A Grand Cru that expresses its site through precision rather than opulence. Dark cherry and forest berries remain clearly defined, overlaid with violet and a dry herbal spice. Cool in expression, warm at its core, built lean at 12.5% vol.

The Achkarrer Schlossberg is one of the six VDP Grand Cru vineyards Franz Keller cultivates at the Kaiserstuhl; the estate covers 35 hectares in total. The volcanic soils shape the minerality of these wines. Friedrich Keller calls the result "Baden Burgundy".

Spätburgunder, also known as Pinot Noir, finds its ideal conditions at the Kaiserstuhl. The house works along the Burgundian model: uncompromising vineyard selection, minimal intervention, precise vinification. Since 2013, the estate has used a winery built in terraces into the hillside, where the harvested grapes move gently through the levels by gravity; Uwe Barnickel and Christian Häuber are responsible for the aging. Friedrich Keller has led the estate, founded in 1892, since 2016 as its fourth generation, gradually converting cultivation to organic farming with biodynamic elements.

Dry and taut, the tannin silky, the red fruit juicy, the acidity lively. The finish remains long and stony.

With duck breast, saddle of venison with mushrooms, roast pigeon or coq au vin. Robust hard cheese and lentils with bacon also pair well. The estate's Schwarzer Adler restaurant has held its Michelin star continuously since 1969.

Fruit from a VDP Grand Cru vineyard on volcanic subsoil. The winery's roof is planted with native species from the Badberg nature reserve. The estate produces around 400,000 bottles annually.