Peter Wagner Oberrotweil Spätburgunder Alte Reben

The parable of the prodigal son who returns home repentant with nothing to his name is well-known. However, when Peter Wagner returned to his family’s project, he did not come empty-handed. On the contrary, he had amassed a wealth of experience over many years, studying in Geisenheim (Germany), Sonoma (California), New Zealand, and serving as the head winemaker at the renowned Franz Keller estate for six years. With this extensive background, in 2017 he embarked on a new chapter with the support of his father and brother, following the Burgundian model. These are pure, finely crafted wines that, while young and appealing, promise a long lifespan.

But what truly sets this intrepid vintner in Baden (Germany) apart is his passion for pinot noir (Spätburgunder in German). Wines such as Peter Wagner Oberrotweil Spätburgunder Alte Reben, a pinot noir from old vines (‘Alte Reben’), are a testament to this. These 40-year-old vines, planted on volcanic soils, are cultivated with biological treatments to preserve their utmost purity and are hand-harvested, selecting the best clusters. In the winery, the grapes ferment with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks, where they remain on their lees for about 16 months. Simultaneously, a small portion of the wine ages in used foudres.

Considering that he has been recognized by the prestigious German wine guide ‘Eichelmann’ as one of the great promises in his country, Peter Wagner has become the prodigal son of Spätburgunder. His old vine wine Peter Wagner Oberrotweil Spätburgunder Alte Reben demonstrates this with elegance, finesse, and complexity.