Max and Karo founded Makalié in 2019 in Müllheim, on the edge of the Black Forest and just 6km from the French border. The couple met during their oenology studies at Geisenheim, having found their way into wine via different paths, and gathered experience in France before starting their own project together. Shortly before harvest 2023 the couple moved into a new cellar where they share not only a space, but the same philosophy and ideas as the other winemakers. The additional space is much-needed for bottling and storage; particularly important for wines that require longer on the lees (and consequently later bottling) to reach their balance. The cellar is in Bad Krozingen, 15 km from Müllheim and close to Ölberg where they have several plots including the ‘paradise garden’, so-called for the numerous fruit trees and herbs that grow amid the vines. The couple work with a total of 3 hectares and a mix of purchased grapes and their own rented plots, always working closely with other biodynamic producers and striving to harvest at least 90% of the négoce grapes themselves. The range of plots that Max and Karo work with, from the steep slopes of Römerberg and Ölberg to the renowned Kaiserstuhl, results in an exciting range of terroir including limestone, marl, loess, clay and volcanic rock, alongside plenty of communication, organisation, and mutual trust.
Bottled in August 2023, this ’22 rosé is made with between 10 and 20% Cabernet Carbon (a PIWI variety) picked and pressed together with Pinot Noir, which makes up the remainder. The grapes are harvested from the same plot, close to the winery. After being crushed by foot they are left to macerate overnight, before pressing the next day. For this vintage, 60% was aged in amphora and 40% in barrels, for 11 months. Light minerality, fruity and open, with notes of strawberry, cherry and hibiscus. Drink chilled.