Acolon

Acolon is a modern German red grape, developed by crossing Blaufränkisch, also called Lemberger, with Dornfelder. Its breeding history belongs to Weinsberg in Württemberg rather than to the centuries-old stories attached to many European varieties. It gives growers another route to a deeply coloured red that can ripen relatively early in a cool climate.

Its colour can make the wine look more imposing than its tannin feels. The grape is generally valued for approachable fruit and a less severe texture, although the producer can build additional weight through extraction and oak. The parentage offers a useful point of reference, but it does not make Acolon taste exactly like either parent.

For a first bottle, look for a clearly described dry varietal wine and put it alongside roast pork, sausages or a mushroom dish. It is a useful choice when you want more dark fruit than a light Pinot gives, without automatically seeking maximum tannin. A small chill helps a straightforward version stay fresh at an informal meal.