In foreign circles, it’s still a relatively well-kept secret that about one third of Germany’s vineyard area is planted with red wine varietals and that Germany is the world’s third largest producer of Pinot Noir. Monika Reule, Director, The German Wine Institute

Germany’s problem with getting the word out is most likely that German wine labels are, for the most part, in German–how many Americans know the word, Spätburgunder? (Say it out load and you’ll always remember this is Pinot Noir.)

As an earnest student of German wines, I’m touring Germany this summer to compare and contrast their Pinot Noir with that of our most famous California appellations, Russian River Vally, Sonoma Coast, Carneros and Santa Lucia Highlands.  I’ll be learning how the terrior differs, the growing conditions, the water situation and any legalities that are specific to the country–and of course, tasting at wineries & enjoying with food.

In addition to the wine making, I have a high degree of curiosity about the business of wine.  At the 2010 Destination Riesling World Tour, a vintner told me that a new group of winemakers are discussing how to modernize German wine marketing. At Terry Theiss‘ Riesling 2010 San Francisco tasting I saw several labels that were as appealing to the masses as Australia’s critters.  It’s smart marketing, and bottom line, I think more American’s will embrace German wines once they understand what they are buying.

I’ll be posting (and translating) what I learn about the Pinot Trio–red, grey, and white, Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), Pinot Gris/Grigio (Grauer Burgunder) & Pinot Blanc Weißer Burgunder.

I hope you’ll drink along with me!

(I’m extremely grateful to Wines of Germany for sponsoring my trip.)