Thursday, April 14, 2011

Scots, Schwabs & Spätburgunder















Rainer Schnaitmann Fellbacher Lämmler

Spätburgunder 'R' Großes Gewächs 2008
Württemberg, Germany
A recent article about German Reds mentioned some top names from Baden, Ahr, Franken etc...that were being exported.
My guess is that Württemberg is way down any list. The area is where the 'Schwabs' live and they are notorious for being thrifty...similar to the Scottish folk.
All a myth of course...but knowing them I can understand that they want to keep the good stuff for themselves.
And this is good...from maybe THE top property in the area.

Rainer Schnaitmann has been in charge for 14 years now...still a babe...but that did not stop Gault Millau voting him Newcomer of the Year for 2007
While I expected this to be youthful and not too forthcoming...there was an instant appeal from the glass. Sweet cherries and some cassis...and a bit of chocolate...followed by some oriental spices.
A really well-balanced wine on the palate...with the oak nicely integrated...sweet fruit and a lively acidity...the tannins remind you of youth but the balance again means you can drink with pleasure now. I closed it up and drank the second half next day...still all intact..and a very fine finish. These are vines over 40 years old...and it shows. This will probably close up soon but is worth searching out and try again in 2-3 years.
Points 17.75

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