THÖRLE Spätburgunder, Rheinhessen

Brothers Johannes and Christoph Thörle have transformed their family estate in Saulheim into a benchmark for modern German winemaking. Since taking the reins in 2006, they have focused on the distinct limestone and loess-clay soils of the Rheinhessen, a terroir that lends this Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) its notable mineral energy. The wine is a blend of parcels from the slopes around the village, where a combination of German and French clones provides a balance of structure and aromatic lift.

The winemaking process is handled with a perfectionist’s touch, involving hand-harvesting and a 20- to 30-day spontaneous fermentation on skins. The wine is aged for 10 to 18 months in small French oak barriques—predominantly used to ensure the fruit remains the focus—and is bottled without fining or filtration to preserve its natural texture.

James Suckling has consistently praised this entry-level release, awarding the 2022 vintage 94 points and calling it "astonishingly good" for its balance of black cherry, violet, and delicate spice. Critics frequently note the wine's vibrant sour cherry profile and fine-grained tannins, with Wine Advocate and Vinous highlighting its "pristine" freshness and "chalky minerality" that rivals many more expensive single-vineyard bottlings.