2021 Chardonnay "Edition World Champion" Florian Reus Franken 0.75l

2021 Chardonnay "Edition World Champion" Florian Reus - Franconia
single-vineyard wine

The 2021 Chardonnay "Edition Weltmeister" comes from the limestone and loess-dominated vineyards of Franconia, where manual labor and faithfulness to the terroir are paramount. Florian Reus cultivates his vines with a strong focus on natural balance and longevity – from targeted defoliation to hand-picking. The name "Edition Weltmeister" alludes not only to the Chardonnay's international appeal, but also to the uncompromising quality standards that elevate it to the ranks of great white wines.

Expansion:

The grapes were harvested by hand and pressed in an old basket press , which ensures gentle must oxidation. Spontaneous fermentation took place in barriques, where the wine then rested on the full lees for 12 months – without batonnage or fining. This was followed by further maturation on the fine lees in stainless steel tanks for additional precision and clarity. The wine was bottled unfiltered and only minimally sulfurized to preserve the pure expressiveness of the vintage.

Aroma & Taste:

On the nose, the wine opens with nutty and citrus notes , underscored by vegetal notes such as celery and shiitake mushrooms. These are joined by Thai basil, subtle smoky notes, and a hint of vanilla from the wood. On the palate, it is taut, cool, and delicately juicy , with vineyard peach, fresh acidity, and chalky minerality . Light tobacco nuances, a hint of spring onion, and a delicate grip on the finish add further depth. A wine with clear structure, spice, and elegant tension .

Food recommendation:

A versatile Chardonnay that pairs perfectly with roasted fish , poultry with creamy sauces , mushroom risotto , or Asian-inspired dishes with herbs . Its taut acidity also makes it an ideal partner for aged cheeses .

Special features of the 2021 vintage in Franconia:

After a cool, wet spring with intensive plant protection work, a golden, dry September yielded healthy and aromatic grapes. The must weight was around 84 degrees Oechsle , and acidity levels were higher than in previous years. 2021 produced characterful white wines with lower alcohol but distinctive aromas and freshness —a vintage with a particular focus on elegance, clarity, and structure .

Conclusion:

The 2021 Chardonnay "Edition Weltmeister" from Florian Reus is a complex, profound white wine that delights with taut freshness, saline minerality, and subtle wood tones . A wine that demonstrates that Franconian Chardonnay can boast international stature —uncompromising, full of character, and with great aging potential.