2024 is a vintage of subtle tones

And that’s most apparent in places where things usually get dialed up. No 2023 turbo drive, no pulsing core, no electrifying tension shooting through the glass. Instead: freshness, clarity, accessibility. This is a vintage that doesn’t kick the door down – it rings the bell and waits to be invited in.

What does that mean in practice?

The estate and village-level Rieslings from both producers are more harmonious, cleaner, and more varietally true than last year. No real outliers – just pure drinkability. Juicy, lively, precise, often with a fine acid edge that makes you want to come back for more. Perfect for wine bars and sunny terraces around the world.

The Erste Lage wines? Leaner, finer, but sometimes a little shy. Where 2023 gave you goosebumps, 2024 earns a thoughtful nod. You can feel the phenolics – but they’re on their best behavior. The minerality shines through, but it doesn’t dazzle.

And the Grosses Gewächs?
Important note: this was my first tasting of 2024 GG barrel samples. So I won’t offer a final judgment just yet – that will come after the big Wiesbaden GG tasting in August.

What I can already say: the stylistic direction is clearly elegance over expressiveness. Frauenberg, Kreuzberg, Zellerweg am Schwarzen Herrgott, Pettenthal, Hipping, Rothenberg, Ölberg – they all carry the signature of the vintage with pride, but without pomp. The wines feel more controlled, more disciplined, sometimes even a bit well-behaved. If you’re looking for tension, you’ll need to listen more closely.

Pinot Blanc & Chardonnay 2023/2024

The white Burgundies remain true to their signature oak-driven style – but the wood is well integrated and never dominates. If you like this style, you’ll love these: fresh, balanced, long. Crystal clear and precise, with grip and energy. Especially exciting: the new 2023 Möhlsheim Chardonnay. Still a bit wild and youthful, but full of potential. A bold addition that shows where things might be headed.

Pinot Noir 2023

Since the 2019 vintage, the reds have become more refined, focused, and balanced with each passing year. 2023 isn’t quite as juicy as the outstanding 2022, but it brings more spice and depth to the table. Not a cool-toned vintage – quite the opposite: ripe, dark-fruited aromatics, fine tannins, and a finish with character. This isn’t a year for easy fruit – it’s for serious Pinots with long-term promise.

My conclusion

2024 at Battenfeld-Spanier & Kühling-Gillot isn’t about fireworks. It’s about quiet confidence. A vintage for second glances. For those who prefer to listen rather than shout. For drinkers, not trophy hunters. If you value elegance over extravagance, balance over brawn – this vintage has plenty to offer. For me, it’s a year that’s a lot of fun in its youth. But for serious aging predictions? Let’s give it time.