2022 Stefan Vetter Rotling, 750ml

Once a fairly common practice (and wine) for the domestic German market, the category of "Rotling" (technically a wine made from both red and white grapes that must be pressed and fermented together) suffered from copious amounts of über-cheap, often off-dry versions in the 1980s and 1990s, thus destroying the reputation of the practice. So it's been curious to see the style coming back among those winemakers who see a value in delicate reds. This is a roughly 50/50 blend of Pinot Noir and Müller-Thurgau, crushed and pressed together with élevage in large casks. If there is a more mineral, quinine, electrolyte-powered wine, we have not yet tasted it. Consider this the official wine of the NYC marathon. It's a beguiling colour - between watermelon and orange Hi-C, with crystal clear berry flavors, a crunchy-salty minerality and just amazing verve. Pure refreshment. This will be bottled in a clear bottle with a crown cap. - vB