Stahl »Best of« Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine

A Blanc de Noirs made from pure Pinot Noir — vinified white, but with the full substance of a red grape variety behind it. Christian Stahl from Franconia is one of the winemakers who prove that German sparkling wine can do far more than its reputation suggests. The “Best of” stands for the selection of the best batches from the vintage — a sparkling wine that puts the character of the grape variety in the foreground, not the dosage.

In the glass, it shows a delicate salmon pink; the perlage is fine and persistent. The nose is dominated by red berry fruits — ripe raspberry, strawberry, a hint of currant — complemented by a fresh, slightly floral note reminiscent of rose petals. On the palate, it presents itself as dry and taut, with a lively acidity that holds the wine together without making it appear edgy. The texture is soft and inviting, the mouthfeel slightly creamy. The finish is clean, fresh, and characterized by a subtle minerality that also locates the Pinot Noir as a red wine grape in white sparkling wine.

It cuts a fine figure as an aperitif, but also stands up to food: salmon tartare with capers, goat cheese crostini, a summery tomato salad with basil, or light poultry dishes. Those who drink it pure should let it breathe in the glass for a moment — this unfolds the fruit. Serving temperature: 7–9 °C.