While most of us passively protest the globalization of taste by stuffing ourselves with local fare from Bio delicatessens, a few gastronomic crusaders are actively working to enlighten our profane tables.
Roland Kretschmer is one of them: a former journalist and editor at Deutsche Welle, this 40-year-old oenophile spent five years roaming across picturesque Burgundy, to uncover family-run vineyards, new terroirs and great wines – and, of course, he never missed a tasting on the way. Back in Germany, Kretschmer decided to turn his hard-earned knowledge into commerce: he launched Berlin’s first and only Burgundy-specific wine store, Les Climats.
There, at the back of a Mitte courtyard, you’ll find prestigious Grand Crus side by side with affordable village appellations and bargain AOCs. Why not treat yourself to a Montagny 1er Cru (€13.50)? It’s from Domaine Le Grégoire, and Kretschmer’s personal favourite to accompany a deserving fish dish.
Have a hankering for something even more special? Go for a Grand Cru from Vosne-Romanée. And as Champagne is not so far away – Kretschmer offers an excellent Rosé Brut Grand Cru (€27). For further advice, drop by one of Les Climats’ regular wine tastings.
