2012 Laumersheimer Kirschgarten Pinot Noir Grosses Gewächs

Were it not for Stephan Knipser, this estate would probably not have a website, brochure or perhaps even a price list. So simple, open and honest is his family that tasting the new vintage at the picnic tables in the courtyard is a throwback to yesteryear. “We would sell all of our wines anyway,” he says with a smile. Nonetheless, they now also have a new tasting room and even a restaurant called Halbstück in a neighboring village. What truly sets them apart from the other well-known producers in the Pfalz is not only their artistry with the classical grapes of the region, but a mastery of barrel aging that allows them to produce excellent Chardonnay, Syrah and Bordeaux blends as well. Thirteen of the 21 wines that I tasted here this year merited 90 points or more and four were among the best wines of the vintage. Patient as they are, though, most of them will not be released before 2017.