Decanter points out German Spätburgunder Gains

Together with  Caro Maurer MW, Master Sommelier Stefan Neumann MS and London-based buyer Mark Dearing (Justerini & Brooks) judged on 58 high-standard Pinot Noirs grown across Germany's 13 wine regions - with remarkable results.

Soley still, dry red wines made from Spätburgunder (Pinot noir) were the specifications of this tasting event.

Scores and Takeaways

• 2 wines rated "Exceptional"
• 6 wines rated "Outstanding"
• 30 wines rated "Highly recommended"
• 16 wines rated "Recommended"
• 4 wines rated "Commended"

Impact of Climate Change
Climate change is boosting German wine regions, especially Spätburgunder (Pinot noir). Warmer vintages have increased ripeness and quality.

Recent Vintages and Quality Highlights
Warm vintages 2018, 2019, 2020 already showed noticeable ripeness.
2022 vintage stood out, with German Spätburgunder recognized among the world's best. Stefan Neumann praised the 58 Spätburgunder wines from 2022 as outstanding.

Production and Global Ranking
Germany cultivates 11,519 ha of Pinot noir, ranking third worldwide after France (≈32,300 ha) and the USA (≈25,000 ha). The variety is grown across all 13 quality wine‑growing regions in Germany.

Regional Diversity and Soil Influence
Spätburgunder thrives on varied soils: limestone, slate, red sandstone, basalt, loess, and keuper. Mark Dearing noted strong expression of regional characteristics. Neumann highlighted examples from Ahr and Rheinhessen.

Tasting Insights and Recommendations
Fine‑tuning of acidity, extraction, and oak aging contributes to excellent results.
Quality is consistent across price ranges, Decanter reporter Caro Maurer MW confirms

A 96‑point Spätburgunder from Mosel surprised the tasting panel; Mosel's cool climate and slate soil produce elegant, fresh, vibrant wines.
Dearing concluded German Spätburgunder should be on every wine lover’s radar.

Fine Awardees and tasting notes of this blind tasting in Decanter's October Issue (2025), page 114 ff