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For Outstanding German Wines in Australia
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Schwarzriesling
Although, in German, the name literally means "Black Riesling," this variety is not at all related to the Riesling, but rather it is an earlier-ripening mutation of the Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). The wines are deep in colour, but generally lack the complexity of Spätburgunder.
It is known in France and the English speaking world as Pinot Meunier, a variety most noted for being one of the three main grapes used in the production of Champagne (the other two are the black Pinot Noir and the white Chardonnay). Until recently Champagne makers did not acknowledge Pinot Meunier, preferring to emphasise the use of the other noble varieties but now Pinot Meunier is gaining recognition in France for the body and richness it contributes to Champagne.
It is believed to be a mutation of Pinot Noir. It was first mentioned in the 1500s, and gets its name and synonyms (French meunier and German Müller - both meaning miller) from flour-like dusty white down on the underside of its leaves.
Although, in German, the name literally means "Black Riesling," this variety is not at all related to the Riesling, but rather it is an earlier-ripening mutation of the Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). The wines are deep in colour, but generally lack the complexity of Spätburgunder.
It is known in France and the English speaking world as Pinot Meunier, a variety most noted for being one of the three main grapes used in the production of Champagne (the other two are the black Pinot Noir and the white Chardonnay). Until recently Champagne makers did not acknowledge Pinot Meunier, preferring to emphasise the use of the other noble varieties but now Pinot Meunier is gaining recognition in France for the body and richness it contributes to Champagne.
It is believed to be a mutation of Pinot Noir. It was first mentioned in the 1500s, and gets its name and synonyms (French meunier and German Müller - both meaning miller) from flour-like dusty white down on the underside of its leaves.
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Compared to Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the Pinot Meunier (Schwarzriesling) produces lighter coloured wines with slightly higher acid levels, but can maintain similar sugar and alcohol levels. As part of a standard Champagne blend, Pinot Meunier contributes aromatics and fruity flavors to the wine. Champagnes with a substantial proportion of Pinot Meunier tend not to have as much significant aging potential as Champagnes that are composed primarily of Chardonnay or Pinot noir. It is therefore most commonly used for Champagnes that are intended to be consumed young, when the soft, plushy fruit of the Pinot Meunier is at its peak. A notable exception is the Champagne house of Krug, which makes liberal use of Pinot Meunier in its long-lived prestige cuvees.
The styles of Schwarzriesling made in Germany range from simple, light, semi-dry (halbtrocken) to rich, dry wines with substantial flavors. More recently, Schwarzriesling is used also to make dry white wines with a fresh, fruity character. Hence, our offering of a Schwarzreisling Blanc de Noir.
The styles of Schwarzriesling made in Germany range from simple, light, semi-dry (halbtrocken) to rich, dry wines with substantial flavors. More recently, Schwarzriesling is used also to make dry white wines with a fresh, fruity character. Hence, our offering of a Schwarzreisling Blanc de Noir.
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