Prost Pfalz Pinot Noir 23

There's an unexpected conversation fermenting in the vineyards and cellars of Burgundy, and oddly enough, it's all about Germany's Pfalz and Nahe wine regions. More specifically, it's about the future of European Pinot Noir and the exciting opportunities Germany is beginning to offer.

Many families in Burgundy are turning their attention to southwestern Germany, where a once-impossible climate has become incredibly more hospitable to Pinot Noir. Longer, warmer seasons now allow the grape to achieve ripeness that vignerons struggled with only a decade ago. The high-risk endeavor of growing Pinot Noir in Germany has transformed into one of Europe's most intriguing opportunities.

Pinot Noir, locally known as Spätburgunder, has been woven into Germany's viticultural tapestry for centuries and was brought to the Pfalz and Nahe by the Cistercian monks of Burgundy. Unfortunately, Pinot Noir has always struggled due to the region's cool, unpredictable weather; however, global warming has changed all of that.

Gradually, over the last twenty years, the combination of longer, gentler, and growing seasons, along with improved vineyard practices, has helped Germany become the world's third-largest producer of Pinot Noir. The Pfalz is emerging as one of Germany's most promising regions for Pinot Noir, thanks to its mild, dry fall and diverse soil structure.

Situated between the Haardt Mountains and the French border, the Pfalz offers a mosaic of soils including loam, sandstone, and limestone, providing an ideal beneath-the-vines recipe for Pinot Noir. The region's gentle temperatures and shelter from excess rainfall help provide consistent ripeness. The result is a wonderfully fresh and vibrant expression of Pinot Noir that also happens to be a fantastic value.

Prost is a private label project that's grown directly out of this evolving climate narrative and is organized and imported by The German Wine Collection, a U.S.-based importer dedicated exclusively to German wines. Prost doesn't own vineyards; however, they thoughtfully source from a stable of trusted growers throughout the Mosel, Rheinhessen, and Pfalz. Prost wines are approachable, expressive, and happily unpretentious—crafted to be enjoyed casually with friends and family.

In your glass, this perky Pinot opens with notes of ripe red cherry and dried cranberry on the nose, leading the way to a very subtle beam of fresh herbs. The soft and supple palate can easily handle a slight chill, making it perfect for WNC in the summer.

Pairing is a breeze, and you'll love it with classics like roast chicken, grilled salmon, or mushroom tarts. However, it's equally delightful with less conventional dishes such as sesame-dressed soba noodles, beet and goat cheese sandwiches, or even a simple slice of pepperoni pizza. Pour Prost Pinot Noir without pother—this hedonistic red porch sipper is infinitely enjoyable, food-versatile, and effortlessly charming.