Dottinger Castellberg Syrah QbA dry

The Dottinger Castellberg Syrah QbA dry is the boldest gamble from Martin Waßmer of Bad Krozingen-Schlatt – the perfectionist in the southern Markgräflerland region who proves that Baden can produce world-class Syrah. The Dottinger Castellberg is his exceptional vineyard site par excellence: a terraced, steep slope with Roman origins dating back to 1784, situated on deep calcareous marl and weathered limestone soils comparable to Burgundy Grand Cru climates.

The vines are rooted on south- to southeast-facing terraces with historic dry stone walls – a unique microclimate that allows the Syrah to reach maximum ripeness while maintaining a cool freshness. Hand-harvesting, rigorous selection, spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts, and subsequent aging in barriques – all with the same meticulous attention to detail as with Waßmer's Pinot Blancs.

In the glass, a deep, rich violet-red. The nose opens with dense fruit aromas of cherry and blackcurrant, subtle peppery spice, vanilla, and light roasted notes. On the palate, full-bodied and concentrated, with ripe tannins, elegant spice, and a long, peppery-mineral finish.

Served at 16–18 °C with 14.0% alcohol by volume – a limited rarity. A natural accompaniment to game, leg of lamb, braised beef and aged cheese – Burgundian in character, rooted in Baden and Rhodanian in spirit.