Alsatian or German Pinot Noirs

Welcome to a blind tasting focused on one of the most elegant and understated styles of Pinot Noir in the wine world: cool-climate Pinot Noir from Alsace (France) and Germany, where it is known as Spätburgunder. We also think they are part of the most exciting regions as climate change brings potential new opportunities to these two underrated regions, especially for Pinot Noir.

Pinot Noir is a thin-skinned grape that is highly sensitive to where it’s grown. In cooler climates, it produces wines that emphasize:

• Fresh acidity and lift
• Lower alcohol and lighter body
• Precision over power
• Aromatic complexity and transparency of terroir

In Alsace and Germany, Pinot Noir often shows:

• Bright red fruit (cherry, cranberry, strawberry)
• Floral notes (violet, rose)
• Earthy tones (forest floor, mushroom, autumn leaves)
• Subtle spice (clove, cinnamon, white pepper)
• Silky texture with fine tannins

These wines are less about richness and more about elegance, energy, and nuance—hallmarks of great cool-climate viticulture.
Alsace (France): Cool-Climate Pinot

Alsace sits in a rain shadow created by the Vosges Mountains, allowing Pinot Noir to ripen while still preserving freshness. Compared to warmer regions, Alsatian Pinot Noir often shows:

• Pure, lifted red fruit
• Bright acidity with a clean, dry finish
• A balance between ripeness and restraint

You may find notes of red currant, raspberry, dried herbs, and gentle spice—often with a slightly more “classic French” structure.

Germany: The Rise of Cool-Climate Spätburgunder
Germany is now one of the most exciting regions for cool-climate Pinot Noir in the world. With long growing seasons and cooler temperatures, Spätburgunder tends to be:

• Highly aromatic and precise
• Silky, with pronounced acidity
• Mineral-driven and structured despite its lightness

Expect profiles like sour cherry, wild strawberry, smoke, tea leaf, and a distinct cool, stony character that reflects its origin.

IMPORTANT: Once RSVPs are set, we will reach out to each of you to ask you to bring specifically either a German or Alsatian bottle of pinot noir. The goal is to have a balanced number from each region (e.g. 6 from Germany and 6 from Alsace). We’ll have 3 flights of wines with the first flight all from one region, the second all from the other region, and the third being a mix of both and seeing if folks can differentiate between the two.

Along with your wine, if you can also bring:

• 4 wine glasses
• 1 food item that pairs well with pinot noir to share

Please reach out with any questions. We look forward to a fun evening!

Katie and Steven