Riesling Buntsandstein Qualitätswein
Pfalz, Germany
Buntsandstein refers to the colourful sandstone soil of the Mittelhaardt in the Pfalz, known for yielding floral, spicy and expressive Rieslings. Pflüger farms biodynamically and works with minimal intervention to allow terroir to guide the style. The wine is fermented naturally in stainless steel and aged briefly on lees. Aromas of orange blossom, yellow apple, lemon verbena and wet stone float from the glass. The palate is juicy and bright, with refreshing acidity, gentle spice and a soft, mineral-laced finish. Pair with lightly spiced dishes, spring vegetables or sushi. A graceful, textured white with energy and elegance in perfect balance.
Technical Sheet
The Producer
Alexander Pflüger assumed the reins from his father in 2010 and hasn’t changed much – it had been organic since 1989 and farmed biodynamically since 2008 so a real trend-setter in the region. It’s clear the family have a passion for the local terroir and the way that it is expressed in their wines. Alex is a member of the VDP ‘Academy’ of promising young things and already uses their labelling system of Gütswein, Ortswein and Lagenwein.
The Bundsandstein (Gütswein since you asked) is a remarkable value, hugely popular Riesling. It’s aromatic and acidic, like Riesling ought to be, but packed with fruit that renders it both simultaneously archetypal and exceptionally user-friendly. The Dürkheimer Michelsberg is a Lagenwein (soon to be a Grosses Gëwachs) and it shows in the greater degree of concentration. All of the Pinots are remarkable – nothing but nothing from Burgundy can match the value on offer from Alex Pflüger – bargain hunters take note!
