Gutshof Kraatz Zwei Schwestern 2016

Zwei Schwestern, ‘two sisters’ in German, is an Apfelwein created by Florian from Gutshof Kraatz from Uckermark. It is a blend of two old apple varieties, which are not so common these days, Blenheim Orange and Reinette Du Canada. The first apple variety originates from Woodstock, Oxfordshire near Blenheim, UK and was first described around 1740. The second apple variety, Canadian Reinette was documented for the first time in 1771. However, it is not certain, whether it comes from Normandy, France or England. Blenheim Orange produces a sweet juice, whereas juice made from Reinette Du Canada is rather tart. Sounds like a pair of two very different yet interesting siblings.Company: Gutshof Kraatz
Place of Origin: Nordwestuckermark-Kraatz, Germany
Apples: a blend of Blenheim Orange and Reinette Du Canada
Sweetness as per label: dry
ABV: 8%
Package type: 750ml clear glass wine bottle with screw cap
Recommended type of glass: white wine glass

Appearance: pours a  clear pale golden with no head. No signs of carbonation. Body is low to medium.

Aroma/Nose: the aroma is dry and acidic with notes of freshly cut green apple, light lemon, a light vinous note, a hint of ripe cantaloupe melon and mirabelle plums.

Taste: my first taste is dry with a touch of sweet with a medium acidity of lemon. On the mid-palate lingering freshly cut green apple, yellow apples, light ripe cantaloupe melon, mirabelle plum, light astringent taste, gentle bitterness and a light hint of alcohol. It finishes also dry with a green apple note, some lemon and a slightly chalky taste.

Overall: Zwei Schwestern is a very refreshing and pleasant Apfelwein. Rich, complex and nicely balanced with notes of lemon and of green freshly cut apple. A tasty combination of tart and green notes make it very drinkable. Also, lingering notes of mirabelle plums and cantaloupe melon make it even more exciting. I liked it and I think it would greatly complement any food such as cheese, pasta or white meat. Not as divine as my favourite Wilde Kerle 2016 but still a very pleasant drop. Worth trying. 4/6

Availability: from their online shop, Q Regio. In Frankfurt from Apfelweinkontor and Apfelweinhandlung. In Berlin from Schaufenster Uckermark located in Markthalle Neun. In Poland through Vinoteka in Szczecin.

Price: Florian contacted me and asked if I’d like to try their Apfelwein.