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Schwarzriesling (better known globally as Pinot Meunier) is a famous dark grape variety. Although primarily used in France for Champagne production, in Germany (especially the Württemberg region) it is used to create wonderful still red wines. These wines stand out with a subtle ruby color, soft tannins, and exceptionally bright strawberry and cherry aromas. It is an ideal choice for those seeking elegance and lightness.
Read moreDepending on the region, this variety can be used to produce top-tier sparkling wines or gentle red wines. When choosing, it is important to know your personal expectations.
A dry red Schwarzriesling produced in Germany is light, fruity, and very elegant. It is often fermented in steel tanks to maintain its primary red berry crispness, though prestigious producers may briefly age it in large wooden barrels. If you choose a Champagne or "Sekt" (German sparkling wine) variant, this variety provides the drink with roundness, bready aromas, and helps the wine open up more quickly.
Due to its low tannin content and good acidity, still red Schwarzriesling is incredibly flexible in gastronomy. It pairs perfectly with pork tenderloin, roasted duck, wild mushroom dishes, and even richer fish. It is an excellent compromise when looking for a red wine that will not overpower delicate food.
No, this is a very common misconception stemming from the name, which translates from German as "black Riesling." Genetically, this variety belongs to the Pinot (Burgundy) family and is a natural mutation of Pinot Noir. It has absolutely no botanical connection to the white Riesling grape.
The French name "Meunier" (like the German synonym "Müllerrebe") means miller. The variety received this name due to the unique appearance of its leaves—in spring and early summer, the undersides of the vine leaves and shoots are covered with fine white hairs, making the plant look as if it had been dusted with flour.
