Pinot Noir Pfalz Gerd Stepp *Buntsandstein* - 1307, 2017

Coming from a single vineyard plot, the south east facing slope is surrounded by traditional sandstone walls and terraces. The unique microclimate produces a distinctive wine with intense aromas including fresh blackcurrant, strawberries and other forest fruits. It is intensely flavoured with a grainy texture and firm acidity, giving it aging potential. Grapes were hand-picked, partially de-stemmed (60%) and placed in open top fermenters with no use of pumps. The grapes and juice were left to steep for ten days at low temperature then the fermentation initiated. The wine was matured in 60% new oak barrels and 40% second fill for eighteen months, yet the oak is less obvious than the Stepp Pinot Noir due to the concentration and structure of the Buntsandstein grapes.