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As consumers become increasingly interested in “eco-living”, the increase in ethical shopping is now affecting the demand for ethically-produced wines. The Soil Association’s 2009 Market Report found that sales of organic alcoholic drinks in the UK market have grown 21.9% over the past year
German producers are leading the way with many now producing organic and biodynamic wines ~ there interest being just as much about the quality and respect for the environment as consumer demand. It requires commitment and significant cost to change the way they farm, but those that make the switch are convinced that by doing so, their wines will better reflect the “terroir” on which they are grown, resulting in a purer, more complex wine with more balance and natural character
Here’s a tried and tested selection of some of the best ethically-produced German wines available in the UK..
Kendermanns Organic 2007 (Waitrose, £5.99)
A deliciously fresh medium sweet wine from the Rheinhessen region, made from a blend of organically grown grapes, without the use of artificial fertilisers or pesticides. Delicate on the palette with crisp citrusy apple and pear flavours
BEST BUY AND BEST TASTING
SECOND CHOICE:
Knobloch Riesling Kabinett Trocken 2007 (Vintage Roots Ltd, £8.99)
A deliciously zesty, dry wine made from organic Riesling grapes, grown in the Rheinhessen. With fresh lime and apple fruit flavours and a hint of praline, an excellent wine offering great value
THIRD CHOICE:
Von Buhl Deidesheimer Herrgottsacker 2008 Riesling (Jascots Wine Merchants, £13.50)
A full bodied crisp, zingy, fruity wine by family-owned Von Buhl estate in the Pfalz region, who have been practising organic and biodynamic farming methods in their vineyards since 2005 with the aim of producing natural wines with a youthful, pure character.
Stockists:
Kendermanns Organic 2007 – £5.99: Waitrose
Knobloch Riesling Kabinett Trocken 2007 – £8.99 Vintage Roots Ltd (Hampshire)
http://www.vintageroots.co.uk
Von Buhl Deidesheimer Herrgottsacker Riesling 2008 – £13.50: Jascots Wine Merchants
http://www.jascots.co.uk
