Eisberg make alcohol-free wine. That’s what they do. So we’re talking 0.0% here. No worried about even the slightest traces of alcohol in your bloodstream (which is good news if, for instance, you have an allergy to alcohol). They have quite a range of options now, from classic whites and reds to even a non-alcoholic mulled wine. The Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir is designated as one of their premium products.
The wine if produced by the vacuum distillation method and comes in vegan-friendly and low calorie as well. Does all that add up to a premium product? Let’s have a sip and see.
Appearance
Pouring a glass of Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir reveals an nice deep garnet colour. It also has some faint ruby highlights when held up to the light. The wine also has a slight translucence, characteristic of the Pinot Noir grape. Swirling the wine reveals a medium viscosity that clings lightly to the sides of the glass. While the colour is vibrant and appealing, it may lack the deeper saturation and density that some associate with premium reds. However, it still makes for an elegant glassful.
Aroma
On the nose, the Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir presents a bouquet very reminiscent of classic Pinots. Bright notes of fresh red cherries and raspberries dominate, providing a fruity first impression. These are then joined by subtle earthy undertones of damp forest floor and a faint hint of tobacco. There is also a touch of soft vanilla. It’s not super-bold, but it is very nicely balanced.
Taste
The first sip of the Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir delivers on that fruit-forward nose. There’s notes of ripe red fruit flavours, led by cherry, cranberry and raspberry right from the off. It does manage, despite all those fruits, to avoid the overly sugary notes that can sometimes afflict alcohol-free wines. As the flavours develop on the palate, there is a subtle earthiness that emerges, echoing the aromas dried leaves. A delicate touch of spice, reminiscent of clove and cinnamon, adds warmth. It is worth noting however, that while the wine captures many of the hallmarks of Pinot Noir, it does lean towards a lighter body and softer structure compared to its alcoholic counterparts.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel of this alcohol-free Pinot Noir is light and silky, making it an approachable drink. Pinot Noir is, of course, quite a light bodied wine anyway, so its no surprise that this version feels quite delicate in the mouth. There’s none of the “grip” one would get with a heavier variety. But that’s perfectly acceptable in this wine, and with well-judged acidity to balance the fruit flavours, it’s a good representation of the Pinot drinking style.
Finish
The finish of the Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir is clean and refreshing, if relatively short. Any lingering impression are of those red cherries and that hint of cranberry tartness. The short finish suits the wine’s approachable and easy-drinking style.
Pairing Suggestions
Being relatively light-bodied, this non-alcoholic red wine is pretty versatile when it comes to working with lighter dishes. Roasted partridge would work, as would a Mediterranean-style salad. If you really wanted to serve a red wine with a dessert, you could get away with a glass of this beside a berry compote. It probably wouldn’t hold up enough against heartier dishes, but for a simple starter, why not?
Overall Impressions of Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir
The Eisberg Selection Pinot Noir is a light option. Pinot Noir is a light-bodied wine, and this NA version veers more to the light end of the Pinot spectrum. While it does lack a bit of structure, the fruit flavours are very pleasant and balanced with some earthiness and acidity. Plus, it’s a low-calorie option and has zero alcohol, so is ideal for the health conscious.