Achillée Pinot Noir Granite 2021
This wine is produced exclusively from Pinot Noir grown on granite-based soils with a red clay subsoil in the Rittersberg, at the granite foothills of the Frankstein in Dambach-la-Ville. As the variety is prone to disease, trellising is done meticulously by hand: each shoot is individually positioned to prevent overlap, with de-budding and apex braiding.
In the cellar, the grapes are not destemmed. One third of the fruit is foot-trodden before the entire contents of the bins (palox) are poured directly into the maceration vat for about 20 days. No filtration is applied.
Ratings
A brilliant fusion of natural wine character and cool-climate precision. A touch of acetone mingles with fermenting mulberry, layered with peppery and oak notes. On the palate, it’s both voluptuous and energetic—precise yet full of life. The tannins are powerful but seamlessly integrated, balanced by vibrant freshness and juicy depth. Flavours of prunes, spices, a hint of oak, and earthy underbrush add complexity. Generous, structured, and surprisingly sophisticated.