Tour and Family Dinner with Stefan and Heike Paeffgen, Château Le Reysse and Château Lassus, Vignobles Paeffgen, Appellation Médoc - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

March 5, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Exceptional Winemaker Dinner: Owner Matthieu Perrin of Château de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Owner Christian Ress of Weingut Balthasar Ress, Rheingau and 3 Star Michelin Chef Christian Bau of Victor's Fine Dining in Perl-Nenning at the Rheingau Gourmet & Wein Festival 2020 in Kronenschlösschen in Hattenheim, Rheingau, Germany

≪ Previous: BEST of Lemberger - Marcus Hofschuster, Wein Plus, Germany

Pictures: Tour and Family Dinner with Stefan and Heike Paeffgen, Château Le Reysse and Château Lassus, Vignobles Paeffgen, Appellation Médoc - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

Following the visit of Château Sociando Mallet

See: Tour and Tasting at Château Sociando Mallet, Appellation Haut-Médoc - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

we drove up to Bégadan for dinner with Stefan and Heike Paeffgen, Vignobles Paeffgen.

Stefan Paeffgen is a career changer who has been making wine only for a few years. Stefan Paeffgen holds a Doctorate in agricultural science and in another life worked in the agriculture industry in his home country Germany and in Scandinavia. He always had a passion for the wines of the Médoc and at age 46, he was at a crossroad and made the decision to go back to practical agriculture. He searched for a winery and finally settled in Bégadan, north of St.-Estèphe.

Today, his Vignobles Paeffgen comprise 4 châteaux: Château Le Reysse and Château Lassus as well as Château Clos du Moulin and Château Moulin de Lestagne.

We had a lovely charcuterie and cheese dinner with Stefan and Heike Paeffgen and there children (who were visiting their parents during school break). Before dinner, Stefan showed us around.

Pictures: Château Le Reysse and Château Lassus, Vignobles Paeffgen

Stefan Paeffgen

Stefan Paeffgen grew up on a farm in Germany, which his older brother took over, when their father retired. Stefan had to look for something different, although he would have loved to take over the family’s property.

Pictures: Stefan and Heike Paeffgen Receiving us

Stefan studied agriculture in München, Stuttgart, Wisconsin, Paris and then worked for a large fertilizer company. He moved up in the company and made good money. There were mergers and was restructuring. At some point, he was offered a golden handshake and started to look for a winery he could take over. In that period, Stefan, his wife and the 3 children were living in Belgium, near Brussels.

In November 2010, he signed a sales contract with Patrick Chaumont, the owner of Vignobles Chaumant (Château Le Reysse and Château Lassus) and moved to Bégadan, initially without his family; by now they are all in Bégadan. In 2012, he also acquired Château Clos du Moulin and Château Moulin de Lestagne from Michel Boyer.

Patrick Chaumont stayed on for 2 years to help. They cooperated wonderfully and Stefan learned to make wines in the traditional style. Patrick Chaumont still visits every now and then to see how things are going.

Pictures: In the Vineyard with Stefan Paeffgen

Château Le Reysse

Patrick Chaumont founded Château Le Reysse in 1983. He withdrew the Château Le Reysse vineyards from the co-op and started to vinify the wines himself. (Château Lassus – see below - remained in the co-op). When his son married into a winery in the southern part of Pauillac, he decided to sell Château Le Reysse (and Château Lassus).

4.5 hectares in Bégadan, partially bordering with the vineyards of Rollan de By and La Tour de By

20.000 – 26.000 bottles, which Stefan Paeffgen sells through the old channels of Patrick Chaumont, but increasingly also through his new channels, primarily in Germany

55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot

Pictures: In the Chai of Château Le Reysse and the Chai of Château Lassus

Château Lassus

Along with Château Le Reysse, Stefan Paeffgen bought Château Lassus from Patrick Chaumont. The wine is sold en bloc to a Negoçiant in Bordeaux. Here is what the Negoçiant says: Château Lassus, the Chaumont family property since 1967, was mentioned in the first edition of "Bordeaux et ses Vins" edited by Charles Cocks in 1850 and was already listed in the Féret 1939 edition as it had been classified Cru Bourgeois in 1932 for its "terroir" and quality of the wines produced. The estate was taken over by the Paeffgen family in 2010 who has realized large investments since to help the cru maintain its renowned status. The quality focus is realized by sustainable efforts in the vineyards and by strong selection process. Today, Stefan Paeffgen, passionate by wines and fallen in love with this charming property, is in charge of it.

Soil : Clay-gravels / Surface : 25 hectares

Average age of the vineyard : 35 years

Location : The vineyard is located between the Bégadan village and the Gironde River in the Médoc.

Grape varieties : 50 % Merlot / 50 % Cabernet Sauvignon

This wine is vinified by the traditional method, in thermo-regulated concrete and stainless steel vats, after a period of pre-fermentation maceration. Vertical pressing. Ageing for 12 months in new barrels, second-fill and third-fill barrels.

Deep color with garnet highlights. Very aromatic bouquet with touch of blackcurrant and spices. Superb, dense attack with a slightly jammy fruit. The relatively powerful tannic structure shows supple tannins.

Pictures: In the Barrel Cellars with Stefan Paeffgen

Château Clos du Moulin

The roots of Château Clos du Moulin can be traced back to the 19th century. The Boyer family, the former owner, used to live there. Château Clos du Moulin is also a Cru Bourgeois in the original classification of 1932. The Cru Bourgeois status was however lost in 2003. Stephan Paeffgen was successful in regaining it in 2011, after he had taken over.

11 hectares in St. Christoly and Couqueques

45.000 – 56.000 bottles

50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot

Château Moulin de Lestagne

3 hectares in St. Christoly

20.000 bottles

20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 80% Merlot

Family Dinner

Following the tour we enjoyed a supper with charcuterie, cheese, baguette, and wine at Château Le Reysse.

Stefan and Heike Paeffgen were our hosts. We were also joined by their 3 children who happened to be there.

Pictures: Dinner with Stefan and Heike Paeffgen

The Wines Stefan Poured

2012 Château Le Reysse (Magnum)

27.000 bottles
60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot
20 months in barrique

Yves Beck: Le Reysse 2012, AOC Médoc Violet intensif. Nez de bonne intensité, fin et complexe. Notes de cannelle, clou de girofle, cacao et fruits noirs (mûre, myrtille, cassis). En bouche l'attaque est minérale avec des notes de graphite. Le corps est légèrement gras et la structure se révèle tardivement. Les tannins sont granuleux, élégants. Beau potentiel de garde. 89-90/100. 2018-2032

2012 Château Clos du Moulin (Magnum)

2016 Château Le Reysse

USA: Château Le Reysse Available Through Lyle Fass Selections

In the USA, Château Le Reysse is available now through Lyle Fass Selections - World Class Artisanal Wines Direct from the Estate at 40% Below Retail

Lyle Fass: Some of the Most Mineral-Driven Bordeaux I Have Ever Had - Our Most Popular Bordeaux Wines by Far - 2015 is Such a Great Vintage - It Allies Finesse, Power and Freshness - These Wines Have the Balance and Minerality We Love in Other Regions

I think of all the regions where I have carefully put together a small cadre of growers Bordeaux is what I'm most proud of. There is not a ton of Bordeuax love on my list so I offer very few wines but the ones I do offer, I really love.

Bordeaux has the most growers of any wine region in France. There are 50-60 estates everyone knows and always sell. I don't mess with them as the price competition is too intense and I don't want to fall into the "me too" trap; that's not my role in the wine world. You also have a bottom percentage of undeniable undrinkable plonk. Then there is the rest. Finding what is good in the rest means I have to taste a whole bunch of undrinkable plonk and boy did I to find the 3-5 Bordeaux estates I work with. But I love them all dearly and perhaps love today's winery the most.

That is Chateau La Reysse and it's little brother, Clos du Moulin. These are some of the most mineral driven Bordeaux I have ever had, along with being stunningly precise with clear and deep fruit. These are owned and made by a German guy so it has that level of German precision as well. La Reysse and Clos du Moulin remain our most popular Bordeaux wines by far and now I am honored to sell the 2015 vintage. Do not miss these. Value like this in Bordeaux I only offer wines this inexpensive (under $27 and under $20) once a year. These have a following and the email is worth it to me and the company. Below is how it used to go when I tried to sell Bordeaux.

The 2015 Le Reysse for as little as $26.99 a bottle on a 4-Pack has a cooling mineral nose with astonishing depth and purity which gives off an impression of amazing freshness. The palate is pure pleasure with oodles of blue and black fruits, wonderful acids, grippy forceful tannins and a real sense of place. Just an amazingly complex, powerful and delicate bottle of Bordeaux. You also get cigar, leather, tobacco and some nice wet earth as well. I can see this aging for up to 20 years. 2015 is such a great vintage as it allies finesse, power and freshness all at once. Freshness is so key in Bordeaux as wines can tend to be lactic, oaky and rich due to a general change in winemaking over the last 20-30 years. This is not that at all, this is what Bordeaux should be at $27 a bottle but rarely if ever is. At La Reysse in 2015 they had an issue with the Cabernet Sauvignon as much of it was contaminated by a hydraulic press machine used in picking, (luckily insurance covered it) but they are down 60% in 2015. So the assemblage is different than in other years.

The 2015 La Reysse is a perfect example of why 2015 Bordeaux is being compared to the greatest vintages of the past 100 years. 2010, 2005, 2000, 1982, 1961, 1945, 1929 are widely considered the top 7 vintages of the last 100 years. Pricing will reflect that if you are so inclined to search. But what marks a great Bordeaux vintage in my mind, is the little wines were incredible. And La Reysse from the Medoc has it all. Freshness, amazing depth of fruit and structure, perfect balance, big sweet tannins all at an affordable tariff make the 2015 La Reysse one hell of a wine. It is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. The Cabernet Franc is also of note as it is the first time they have used it. The vines are over 100 years old and from a vineyard they got that was not in too great shape, but they persisted and it was worth it and now it's very low yielding and super high quality. In normal years they will be about 2% of the assemblage but it is 8% in 2015 due to the losses of the Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is insane and totally unique. Nose has violets and the classic deep mineral drive of La Reysse. Also deep cassis and black berry fruit. Elegantly framed by well integrated wood. Also floral and red cherries add complexity. Wonderful combo of fruit and mineral. Both wafting and competing for your olfactory senses. The palate is lively and fresh as La Reysse is and should be. The tannins are so soft and juicy yet also asserting authority. Huge minerals throughout the midpalate and long persistent finish. The wine has improved so much since Stefan has been in charge of the estate with 2010 being his debut vintage. The wine soaks your palate with fruit like only Bordeaux can. Remarkable wine and the best La Reysse ever.

Bye-bye

Many thanks Heike and Stefan for a great tour and dinner.

↧

Exceptional Winemaker Dinner: Owner Matthieu Perrin of Château de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Owner Christian Ress of Weingut Balthasar Ress, Rheingau and 3 Star Michelin Chef Christian Bau of Victor's Fine Dining in Perl-Nenning at the Rheingau Gourmet & Wein Festival 2020 in Kronenschlösschen in Hattenheim, Rheingau, Germany

March 8, 2020, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Cru Bourgeois: The New Classification of 2020

≪ Previous: Tour and Family Dinner with Stefan and Heike Paeffgen, Château Le Reysse and Château Lassus, Vignobles Paeffgen, Appellation Médoc - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

Picture: Matthieu Perrin of Château de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Christian Ress of Weingut Balthasar Ress, Rheingau, Annette Schiller of ombiasy WineTours and 3 Star Michelin Chef Christian Bau of Victor's Fine Dining in Perl-Nenning at the Rheingau Gourmet & Wein Festival 2020 in Kronenschlösschen in Hattenheim, Rheingau, Germany

Annette Schiller joined Matthieu Perrin of Château de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Christian Ress of Weingut Balthasar Ress, Rheingau and 3 Star Michelin Chef Christian Bau of Victor's Fine Dining in Perl-Nenning for an exceptional winemaker dinner at the Rheingau Gourmet & Wein Festival 2020 in Kronenschlösschen in Hattenheim, Rheingau, Germany.

Annette Schiller on facebook: Last night: phenomenal 6 course dinner at the Rheingau Gourmet & Wein Festival 2020 in Kronenschlösschen in Hattenheim: 3 Star Michelin chef Christian Bau, Victor's Fine Dining in Perl-Nenning, Riesling from Weingut Balthasar Ress, 2012 Rüdesheimer Berg Schlossberg GG from an impressive Balthazar bottle, 2005 Nussbrunnen Grand Cru, Beerenauslese presented by Christian Ress, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape from Château de Beaucastel, presented by Matthieu Perrin.

I did not participate in the event. All the pictures from the event are from the facebook pages of Annette Schiller, Christian Ress, Christian Bau, Axel Gross and Guiseppe Lauria.

Famille Perrin

wine-searcher.com: Famille Perrin is a leading wine producer and négociant in the southern Rhône Valley. The business was established in 1997, and today makes wines from some of the region's most famous appellations, including Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

The Perrin family has been making wine in the region since the early 1900s, when scientist Pierre Perrin inherited the Château de Beaucastel estate. Perrin's grandchildren, François and Jean-Pierre, founded the Famille Perrin business together before passing on the reins two years later to the fifth-generation Perrin, Pierre, in 1999.

In addition to its renowned Château de Beaucastel estate, Famille Perrin's portfolio includes Miraval, Domaine du Clos des Tourelles and La Vielle Ferme. Domaine du Clos des Tourelles is situated in Gigondas and comprises 10 hectares (25 acres) of vineyards planted to 80 percent Grenache, with smaller plantings of Syrah, Cinsaut and Mourvèdre. The La Vielle Ferme brand was established in the 1970s, and comprises a range of red, rosé and white wines from vineyards in Ventoux and Luberon. Famille Perrin uses organic and biodynamic approaches in its vineyards.

The company's red and rosé wines include the likes of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Côtes du Rhone Villages and Tavel, all based predominantly on Grenache. The white wines include Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc made from Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Clairette and Bourboulenc, as well as Côtes du Rhône Blanc based on a blend of Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne.

eatlovesavour.com: From the legendary Château de Beaucastel to the partnership with Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie at Miraval, Famille Perrin has experienced more than a century of success. Voted Personality of the Year 2014 by the leading European wine magazine – Decanter Magazine – Famille Perrin is now the largest owner of vineyards in the best terroirs of the Southern Rhone Valley. Famille Perrin is both a pioneer and visionary family: a pioneer in organic farming since 1953 and in biodynamic winegrowing since 1970, the first to have used the Rhone varietals in the U.S. and to believe in the potential of Paso Robles from 1989. The family also promotes its region with the creation of the L’Oustalet restaurant and hotel, at the heart of a wine growing village in Gigondas (Provence).

Robert Parker, Oct 2011: Brothers Jean-Pierre and Francois Perrin as well as their four sons, Thomas, Marc, Pierre and Mathieu, have quickly become the dominate wine producers of the entire southern Rhone Valley. Now having over 1,200 acres in vine and extensive contracts, this is a high quality locomotive, great news for consumers seeking a range of top quality red and white wines in all price ranges. The Perrins’ greatest success is undeniably their enormous quantities of high quality, inexpensive wines called La Vieille Ferme, a white from the Cotes du Luberon and a red from the Cotes du Ventoux. The Perrins are now the top producers of wines from the cool climate southern Rhone appellation of Vinsobres, located in the northern sector of the region… and in 2008, the Perrins purchased one of the better estates in Gigondas, Clos des Tourelles, a 25 acre property located at the southern end of the village from which they make two cuvees. True stars in the Perrin portfolio are the white and red Cotes du Rhone from their estate called Coudoulet which is adjacent to the appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape. As longtime readers know, Chateau de Beaucastel makes two of the great white wines of the southern Rhone.”

Château de Beaucastel - Châteauneuf du Pape
Miraval – Provence
Domaine du Clos des Tourelles
Famille Perrin - Les Crus
Famille Perrin - Les Sélections Parcellaires
Domaine & Maison Les Alexandrins
La Vieille Ferme

Pictures: Tasting at the Caveau of the Perrin Family in Châteauneuf du Pape - Rhône Valley Tour 2018 by ombiasy WineTours: Wine, Culture and History, France

Château de Beaucastel

Château de Beaucastel is primarily noted for its Châteauneuf du Pape wines produced in a long-lived style. For its red Châteauneuf du Pape, Beaucastel includes all 13 grape varieties that are traditionally part of the blend, and uses a higher-than-usual proportion of Mourvèdre. Château de Beaucastel holds a total of 130 hectares of land, of which 100 hectares is planted with vineyards, three-quarters of which is within the Châteauneuf du Pape appellation.

In 1909, the property was bought by Pierre Tramier. After him, his son-in-law Pierre Perrin took over, and expanded Château de Beaucastel's vineyard holdings considerably. The property has stayed in the Perrin family since. After Pierre Perrin, Becaustel was managed by Jacques Perrin until 1978, and after that Jacques' sons Jean Pierre Perrin and François Perrin.

In 1990 Jean-Pierre and François Perrin in collaboration with wine importer Robert Haas founded Tablas Creek Vineyard within the California viticultural area of Paso Robles.

Beaucastel generally vinfies the components for its wines in large, old barrels (foudres), with only Syrah exposed to some new oak. The different grape varieties are vinified separately and later blended.

A somewhat contentious aspect of Beaucastel winemaking is that the wines often show Brettanomyces character, which in most cases are considered a defect, but which is also typical for wines high in Mourvèdre.

Picture: The Wines

Weingut Balthasar Ress

Area under vine: 42 ha / 109 acres
Main grape varieties: Riesling, Spätburgunder
Bottles per year: 250,000

Christian Ress: In 1870, the Balthasar Ress winery was founded in Hattenheim. What began with a butcher's shop and a restaurant quickly developed into a wine trade and a winery, which today is one of the leading businesses in the region and in the country. Today, almost 150 years after its foundation, the Balthasar Ress Winery is still completely owned by the Ress family. Stefan and Christian Ress are the fourth and fifth generation. Oliver Schmid, who joined the estate in 2014 as vineyard manager, has become operations manager in 2018 and is now in charge of the entire production, making - together with the support of winemaker Stephan Sänger - Balthasar Ress wines what they are today.

We are Rheingau winegrowers and our wines reflect what our soils, microclimate and philosophy can achieve. We produce native wine - the counter-design to the interchangeable mainstream. Wine with character and great potential. Since 2010, we have slowly and continuously incorporated "organic viticulture" for our vineyards. Every year, we have converted additional areas and in 2019, the entire company got certified. We work with nature and not against it and take the right time into account in everything we do.

Pictures: Annette Schiller, Christian Schiller and Stefan Ress in the wineBank in Hattenheim in 2013 during the: German Wine and Culture Tour by ombiasy, 2013. See: Tasting at Weingut Balthasar Ress, Hattenheim, Rheingau, with Stefan Ress, Germany

History of Weingut Balthasar Ress

The Ress family is an old, established family in Hattenheim. For generations, they were butchers, and the butcher shop "Metzgerei Ress" exists to this day. In 1870, Balthasar Ress, who was a butcher himself, founded the inn "Gasthof Ress" on Hattenheim's main street, thereby laying the cornerstone of a long tradition in the hotel and restaurant business as well as the wine estate and wine business.

Since then, Carl, Paul, Stefan and now Christian Ress have been at the helm of the Ress Empire. By the 1920s, a thriving wine business had developed. In 1947, Carl Ress founded "Balthasar Ress KG - Wine Estate Proprietor, Winery, Hotel Ress." After Paul Ress’ death in the early 1980s, the family's entire properties were redistributed. Stefan Ress' siblings received the properties in Rüdesheim; he remained the proprietor of Weingut Balthasar Ress.

In 1999, Stefan's son Christian Ress entered the business as the fifth generation of the founding family. He became General Manager in 2010. Since then, he has continued to expand the wine estate, which today comprises 42 hectares. Christian Ress has achieved considerable attention in the wine trade for innovative projects, such as planting Germany's most northerly vineyard on the island of Sylt, near the border with Denmark, in 2009 and opening the wineBANK in Hattenheim in 2009.

Pictures: Christian Ress at RIS Restaurant in Washington DC: Wine Lair Washington DC and Weingut Balthasar Ress, USA/ German

Christian Ress

Since 1999, after several professional apprenticeships in Germany and abroad, Stefan's son, Christian Ress, entered the business as the fifth generation of the founding family. In 2004, he became a co-proprietor of the estate with his parents, and in 2010, assumed responsibility as director of business operations. Since then, he has continued to expand the wine estate, which today comprises 46 ha (ca. 114 acres). Christian Ress has achieved considerable attention in the wine trade for innovative projects, such as planting Germany's most northerly vineyard on the island of Sylt, near the border with Denmark, in 2009; opening the wineBANK in Hattenheim in 2009; "sinking" bottles of RESSpekt in 2010; and last but not least, through his tireless, quality-oriented efforts within the realm of sustainable viticulture.

Christian Ress has consistently pursued opportunities to steadily develop the brand Balthasar Ress in numerous, principal export markets by founding, in conjunction with strategically important partners, his own import and distribution company in Oslo, B&R Wine AS, and the sales agencies/brokers Veritable Wines & Estates KG and Veritable Vins & Domaines KG

Pictures: The Chef

Christian Bau

Andy Hayler's Restaurant Guide

Christian Bau set up Schloss Berg (now renamed Victor’s Fine Dining) in Perl-Nennig in 1998, following a five-year stint at the legendary Schwarzwaldstube in the Black Forest. He earned three Michelin stars for Schloss Berg in 2005 when he was just 34 years old, and which have been retained ever since. Mr Bau is sufficiently confident of doing so that he has three stars tattooed on his arm. If you plan a visit (and you should) then you fly to Luxembourg airport, which is 23km (14 miles) away. There are rooms at the Victor’s Residenz hotel next door to the restaurant.

The menu is a lengthy tasting menu format, with no a la carte, though substitutions for dietary restrictions are readily provided. Although trained in classical French cooking, ever since a trip to Asia in 2007 Christian Bau has been fascinated by Japanese cuisine, and so his cooking has taken on influence, and even ingredients, from Japan. You can choose between a more traditional menu at €175 (£159) or the “Paris to Tokyo” menu at €265 (£241).

Food and Wine Gazette

Located in the heart of the picturesque Moselle vineyards in Schloss Berg, Victor’s Fine Dining was awarded its 3rd Michelin Star in 2005. It retains the honour to this day. The chef de cuisine and head host since 1998, Christian Bau was the youngest German chef to achieve the three-star accolade. He continues to enchant diners with highly innovative European gastronomy with Japanese influences.

Christian Bau heads the kitchen of Victor’s Fine Dining, a position that has honed him into one of Europe’s most distinguished culinary figures. Following a five-year stint at the legendary three- Michelin-starred restaurant Schwarzwaldstube in Berlin, Chef Bau joined Victor’s Fine Dining in 1998 – the same year the restaurant earn its first Michelin star. The second star followed in 1999, and the final third was clinched in 2005. In 2018, Bau was named Gault&Millau’s Chef of the Year (19.5pts) for his outstanding innovation in haute cuisine, and in 2019, was bestowed the Federal Cross of Merit as Germany’s Culinary Ambassador.

At Victor’s Fine Dining, Chef Bau is breaking boundaries with a constantly evolving Carte Blanche menu inspired by Japanese culinary traditions. His menu combines the best seasonal produce with ground-breaking techniques and personal nuances, showcasing an inimitable style of progressive cuisine.

Pictures: The Food

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Cru Bourgeois: The New Classification of 2020

March 11, 2020, 6:00 am

≫ Next: German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) New Vintages Tasting Postponed, USA/ Germany

≪ Previous: Exceptional Winemaker Dinner: Owner Matthieu Perrin of Château de Beaucastel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Owner Christian Ress of Weingut Balthasar Ress, Rheingau and 3 Star Michelin Chef Christian Bau of Victor's Fine Dining in Perl-Nenning at the Rheingau Gourmet & Wein Festival 2020 in Kronenschlösschen in Hattenheim, Rheingau, Germany

Pictures: Christian and Annette Schiller with a Magnum 2006 Chateau Le Crock in Pauillac. Château Le Crock is one of the 14 Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel in the New Classification. Château Le Crock is Owned by the Cuvelier family. See also: Château Léoville-Poyferré, Château Le Crock, Didier Cuvelier in Bordeaux and the Cuvelier Los Andes Wines in Argentina

The Alliance des Cru Bourgeois du Médoc announced in February 2020 a new Cru Bourgeois Classification System. It is an effort to revive the almost 100 years old classification system that had run into problems in recent years.

3 points are noteworthy.

First, the Cru Bourgeois Classification System has returned to a three-tier ranking.

Second, Cru Bourgeois Classification System has moved away from annual reviews. The new classification will be updated every 5 years.

Third, the 2020 list does not include any of the 9 estates that were in the Bourgeois Exceptionnel group in the classification of 2003, such as Château Poujeaux, Château Chasse Spleen, Château Sociando-Mallet, Château Potensac, Château Ormes-de-Pez, Château Phelan Ségur or Château Gloria. These and other estates opted to stay out of the system. "We hope to see them with us in 2025" says Olivier Cuvelier, President of the Alliance des Cru Bourgeois du Médoc.

The 2020 ranking contains 249 châteaux, including:

14 Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel
56 Cru Bourgeois Supérieur
179 Cru Bourgeois

Here are the 14 ‘Exceptionnel’ estates:

Haut-Médoc

Château d’Agassac
Château Arnauld
Château Belle-Vue
Château Cambon la Pelouse
Château Charmail
Château Males Casse
Château de Malleret
Château du Taillan

Listrac-Médoc

Château Lestage

Margaux

Château d’Arsac
Château Paveil de Luze

St-Estèphe

Château le Boscq
Château le Crock
Château Lilian Ladouys

Pictures: Not in the 2020 Classification: Château Phélan Ségur. See: Tour, Tasting and Lunch at Château Phélan-Ségur, with General Manager Véronique Dausse and Winemaker Fabrice Bacquey - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

History

The Beginning: The Cru Bourgeois Classification of 1932

From 1932 to 2003, the Cru Bourgeois du Médoc system was a one-tier classification system set in stone.

The first Cru Bourgeois list was drawn up by the Bordeaux Chamber of Commerce and Chamber of Agriculture in 1932, selecting 444 estates from the Médoc for the classification. These were wines that were not included in the 1855 Classification of Crus Classes, but still of high quality.

There were no Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel nor Cru Bourgeois Supérieur, all 444 estates were Cru Bourgeois. There were no reviews or adjustments. Once in, always in, always a Cru Bourgeois du Médoc.

The Cru Bourgeois Classification of 2003

The first major reform effort of the Cru Bourgeois du Médoc system took place in 2003. But it did not last long. In February 2007, the 2003 system was annulled. At this point, the 1932 classification was briefly reinstated, with its single-tier and 444 estates.

Of the 490 châteaux that applied to be included in the classification of 2003, only 247 were included, a significant contraction of the original listing made in 1932 (444 estates).

Also, the 2003 Cru Bourgeois system classified the 247 properties in three tiers: Exceptionnel (9 properties), Supérieur (87 properties) and straight Bourgeois (151 properties).

As the system of 1932, the classification of 2003 did not foresee any reviews.

The Cru Bourgeois Classification of 2010 to 2019

In the following years, the Cru Bourgeois du Médoc system went back to a single-tier system and introduced annual classifications. Any property in the Médoc could apply. The first vintage that came under the annual classification system was the 2008 vintage, announced in 2010. The estates selected varied from year to year. The total ranged from 220 to 280 estates during this period. In the system of 2010, an estate was awarded the Cru Bourgeois du Médoc in one year and not in the next year.

2017 was the 10th and last vintage to undergo the single-tier annual assessment, announced in September 2019. There were 226 Crus Bourgeois making up the new 2017 Official Selection, representing 19 million bottles, which is approximately 23% of the Médoc’s production.

See:

The 271 Crus Bourgeois du Médoc of the 2015 Vintage Announced, France
The 278 Crus Bourgeois du Medoc of the 2014 Vintage Announced, France
The 251 Crus Bourgeois du Médoc of the 2013 Vintage Announced, France
The 267 Crus Bourgeois du Médoc of the 2012 Vintage Announced, France
The 256 Crus Bourgeois du Médoc of the 2011 Vintage Announced, France
The 260 Crus Bourgeois du Médoc of the 2010 Vintage, France

The Cru Bourgeois Classification of 2020

Under the new system of 2020, the hierarchical levels of Cru Bourgeois, Cru Bourgeois Supérieur and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel were re-introduced and the estates are assessed every five years.

The first announcement of the new five-year list of Cru Bourgeois, Cru Bourgeois Supérieur and Cru Bourgeois Exceptionnel was in February 2020.

The new classification in 2020 brought an end to the yearly assessments run since 2008. The category assigned to an estate from now on will stand for five years. Châteaux can apply to be ‘Cru Bourgeois’ or they can apply for the ‘Supérieur’ and ‘Exceptionnel’ categories where, in addition to passing a qualitative tasting test, they must pass other criteria including their agricultural and environmental practices, property management and promotion of their wine.

Pictures: Not in the 2020 Classification: Château Sociando Mallet. See: Tour and Tasting at Château Sociando Mallet, Appellation Haut-Médoc - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

schiller-wine: Related Posting

Total Immersion in Bordeaux: World Class Wines and Exquisite French Gourmet Cuisine - Bordeaux Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours, France

Total Immersion in Bordeaux: World Class Wines and Exquisite French Gourmet Cuisine - Bordeaux Tour 2018 by ombiasy WineTours, France

Total Immersion in Bordeaux: World Class Wines and Exquisite French Gourmet Cuisine - Bordeaux Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours, France

Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2016, France

Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), France

Bordeaux Wine Tour 2013 by ombiasy

Bordeaux Wines and their Classifications: The Basics

Bordeaux - En Primeur, Negociants, Courtiers, the Quai de Chartons and the Place de Bordeaux– A Short Introduction

How Does the Negociant System in Bordeaux Work? Tour and Tasting at Millésima - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2016, France

Château Léoville-Poyferré, Chateau Le Crock, Didier Cuvelier in Bordeaux and the Cuvelier Los Andes Wines in Argentina

Tour, Tasting and Lunch at Château Phélan-Ségur, with General Manager Véronique Dausse and Winemaker Fabrice Bacquey - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

Tour and Tasting at Château Sociando Mallet, Appellation Haut-Médoc - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

↧

German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) New Vintages Tasting Postponed, USA/ Germany

March 13, 2020, 8:30 am

≫ Next: Alsace and Germany-South Tour 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours: Update

≪ Previous: Cru Bourgeois: The New Classification of 2020

Pictures: Annette Schiller, Phil Bernstein and Christian Schiller. See: The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2017 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

Dear German Wine Society Members and Friends of German Wine,

I regret to have to inform you that the German Wine Society Capital Chapter is postponing its annual New Vintages Tasting with Phil Bernstein, currently scheduled for tonight, March 13, 2020, at Harbour Square. Last evening, we had several cancellations for the event, and I am aware that there are other members and guests who, while they have not cancelled, are concerned about coming due to the current coronavirus pandemic situation. While the risk is probably low with a modest-sized group like ours in a private apartment building, quite unlike the mass gatherings that have been getting cancelled across the country, and we were prepared to take various health precautions including use of disinfectants, hand sanitizers, and gloves, and spreading guests out further at tables, we want guests to be able to fully enjoy our events, and not be worried about risks to their health in attending.

I have included on this notice all of the email addresses I have for persons that had registered for the New Vintages event and had not already cancelled, but there are many of you who also signed up on behalf of other friends and guests whose emails I do not have. Therefore, please let your other friends and guests included in your registration know immediately when you get this message, so that no one will show up this evening and be surprised by the absence of an event. I’m also aware that a couple of members and guests are coming in from out of town for the event, and I hope that by sending this out in the morning, this notice reaches you in time to avoid any unnecessary travel.

New Vintages is merely postponed, not cancelled entirely. This is one of our most popular events of the year, and our members and guests regularly enjoy the opportunity to hear from Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages about the latest German wines, sample them, and decide what to order from him. We cannot set a new definite date at this time, due to the uncertainty about how long coronavirus health concerns will continue, but will be working with Phil to come up with a new date this year at an appropriate time, perhaps in the early summer or later in the fall. We still have all those delicious wines, and are eager to share them with you!

Since we do expect to do New Vintages later this year, we are giving all of you the option either (1) to maintain your current reservation and be automatically included on the guest list when we reschedule the event (retaining your Paypal payment on file or having us hold your check if you paid that way), without any change in price to you even if there is a price change for other guests, or (2) to receive a refund now (either processed through Paypal by our Treasurer, if you paid that way, or by having your check returned or destroyed). Please let me know by email reply to this message which option you would prefer. If you keep your registration on file with us and the date on which New Vintages ends up being rescheduled creates a conflict for you, we will of course provide a refund at that time when you notify us of the problem. Please note that if you included an annual dues payment with your Paypal reservation, as several of you did, the dues payment will not be refunded, only the portion of the payment for the New Vintages tasting.

We are very sorry to have to postpone the event this evening, which I know many of you were looking forward to attending, as I was, but we look forward to seeing you all again when we are able to reschedule. As recently as last night, I had said to some of you who asked that the event was still going forward, but the combination of cancellations, member concerns, and the more general news about the pandemic have made reconsideration necessary. I hope you will agree that this was the right decision for this difficult and uncertain time. All, please stay healthy and take good care of yourselves!

Carl Willner
President and Secretary, Capital Chapter
German Wine Society

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Alsace and Germany-South Tour 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours: Update

March 15, 2020, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Planned Rhône Valley Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Update

≪ Previous: German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) New Vintages Tasting Postponed, USA/ Germany

Picture: Dinner in Beautiful Riquewhir, Alsace. See: The Sun-Kissed South: Germany’s Pinot Noir, the Other Whites, the Culinary Regions - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

Dear friends and fellow travelers,

I think it is important that you hear from me how I assess the situation in southern Germany and Alsace and what my plans are for the tour in view of the Corona virus.

I am currently in Frankfurt, Germany and monitor the situation closely. Both Germany and France have 2.300 cases each as of today. The “Grand East” region in France is the most hit and the Alsace (300 cases as of today) belongs to the "Grand Est”. The regions we are traveling to in Germany: Mainz, Rheinhessen, Pfalz, eastern Baden are not hit very hard with just a few cases.

There are still 2 months to go before the tour starts and I am under the impression that the situation in Germany and France will have stabilized by then. The infrastructure of the health sector (hospitals, test kits, test centers, etc) in both countries is very well prepared for handling the situation. The governments and local authorities are constantly monitoring the situation and put in effect school and university closings, as well as cancellations of cultural events such as theaters, concerts, opera performances, etc. to reign in the contamination.

At this point I am planning to go ahead with the tour as planned. I am monitoring the situation on a daily basis and will keep you posted regularly.

I was planning to travel to the US next week but in view of the restriction the US government put in place for travel from the EU I will stay in Frankfurt, hence I keep my ears to the ground on this side of the big pond.

Cheers
Annette

Annette Schiller, Diplom-Volkswirt
ombiasy | PR
WINE tours | education | events
Washington DC - Frankfurt am Main
T: +1 (703) 459.7513
T: +49 (0) 177.337.0281
aschiller@ombiasypr.com
web: ombiasypr.com
blog: schiller-wine.blogspot.com - Finalist Millésima Blog Awards 2015
Professional Member of the American Wine Society - AWS

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Planned Rhône Valley Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Update

March 17, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Tour and Tasting at Château Beychevelle, Appellation Saint-Julien, 4ième Grand Cru Classé, with Philippe Blanc, Managing Director - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

≪ Previous: Alsace and Germany-South Tour 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours: Update

Pictures: At the Pont du Gard in the Southern Rhône Valley

Annette sent out this e-mail last weekend to those who signed up for the tour.

Dear friends and fellow travelers,

I think it is important that you hear from me how I assess the situation in France and what my plans are for the tour in view of the Corona virus.

I am currently in Frankfurt, Germany and monitor the situation closely. Both Germany and France have 2.300 cases each as of today. The “Grand East” region (Alsace, Lothringen, Champagne-Ardenne) in France is the most hit. There are only a few cases in the Northern and Southern Rhône area.

There are still 3 months to go before the tour starts and I am under the impression that the situation in France will have stabilized by then. The infrastructure of the health sector (hospitals, test kits, test centers, etc) is excellent and very well prepared for handling the situation. The government and local authorities are constantly monitoring the situation and put in effect school and university closings, as well as cancellations of cultural events such as theaters, concerts, opera performances, etc. to reign in the contamination.

At this point I am planning to go ahead with the tour as planned. I am monitoring the situation on a daily basis and will keep you posted regularly.

I was planning to travel to the US next week but in view of the restriction the US government put in place for travel from the EU I will stay in Frankfurt, hence I keep my ears to the ground on this side of the big pond.

Cheers
Annette

Annette Schiller, Diplom-Volkswirt
ombiasy | PR
WINE tours | education | events
Washington DC - Frankfurt am Main
T: +1 (703) 459.7513
T: +49 (0) 177.337.0281
aschiller@ombiasypr.com
web: ombiasypr.com
blog: schiller-wine.blogspot.com - Finalist Millésima Blog Awards 2015
Professional Member of the American Wine Society - AWS

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Tour and Tasting at Château Beychevelle, Appellation Saint-Julien, 4ième Grand Cru Classé, with Philippe Blanc, Managing Director - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

March 19, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Cancellation: Alsace and Germany-South Tour May 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours

≪ Previous: Planned Rhône Valley Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Update

Pictures: Tour and Tasting at Château Beychevelle, Appellation Saint-Julien, 4ième Grand Cru Classé, with Philippe Blanc, Managing Director - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

The tour and tasting at Château Beychevelle was the first visit of the last day of the

Total Immersion in Bordeaux: World Class Wines and Exquisite French Gourmet Cuisine - Bordeaux Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours, France

This was the program for the rest of the day:

Tour and Lunch at Château Desmirail, Appellation Margaux, 3ième Grand Cru Classé, with Owner Denis Lurton

Tour and Tasting at Château Durfort-Vivens, Appellation Margaux, 2ième Grand Cru Classé

Winery Tour and Dinner at Château Bouscaut, Appellation Pessac-Léognan, Cru Classé de Graves, with Owner Sophie Cogombles-Lurton and her Husband Laurent Cogombles

At Château Beychevelle, Appellation Saint-Julien, 4ième Grand Cru Classé, we toured the estate and tasted 3 wines with General Manager Philippe Blanc.

Pictures: The Historic Château Beychevelle

Château Beychevelle

This historic château is one of the largest properties in Bordeaux. The château was constructed in 1565 by Bishop François of Foix-Candale and is well-known as the “Versailles of the Médoc” with its beautiful architecture, exquisite interior, and magnificent park.

A sequence of illustrious, noble proprietors enlarged the buildings and made the garden into one of the most spectacular in the Bordelais.

Pictures: The New Winery of Château Beychevelle

In 1875 Château Beychevelle was purchased by Armand Heine, the cousin of the famous German poet Heinrich Heine, who is best known outside of Germany for his lyric poetry which was set to music by composers such as Robert Schumann and Franz Schubert.

Since 1986 the property belongs to the Grands Millésimes de France. Manager has since been Aymar de Bailleux. A huge renovation project was underway for several years and finished in 2016. The new cellars are surrounded by glass walls.

Pictures: The New Reception Area of Château Beychevelle

Vineyard

Château Beychevelle has 250 hectares of land, about 90 of which are planted with vines. The rest consists of grassland where Limousin cows graze, and of pine forests, poplar, ash and walnut trees.

The vines have an average age of 30 years and are closely planted, with densities of 8,300 to 10,000 vines per hectare; they have developed substantial root systems, enabling them to draw nutrients from deep in the soil, and to cope with the sometimes difficult weather conditions, such as when there are droughts in the summer.

Pictures: In the Vineyard

The vineyard is planted with the Médoc’s four traditional grape varieties: 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot.

The heart of the vineyard is located on two plateaus of deep Garonne gravel from the Gunzian period, on the edge of the Gironde, providing ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. These are the famous gravelly hilltops of the Médoc, close to the Gironde, which offer the best conditions for the classic Bordeaux varietals. Returning the sun’s warmth during the night, and draining away excess rain water, the vines are able to flourish and the grapes ripen perfectly. The resulting deep red wines are well-balanced and generous, offering power tempered by a silky texture.

Pictures: Getting Ready for Harvest

New Winery

Château Beychevelle’s new winery has been custom-made to suit the vineyard, with every vine having a place in a plot-by-plot vinification process, that enables each terroir to express its full complexity and depth.

More spacious, and with an improved layout, the new facilities also permit a gentle transfer of the grapes by gravity, very precise temperature control, and extractions adjusted to the characteristics of each vat.

Combining innovation and tradition, the winery is a perfect reflection of Château Beychevelle’s “haute-couture” expertise.

Pictures: Tour of the New Winery

The Wines

Château Beychevelle
Grand Cru Classé

Ever since it was first produced, and down through the various vintages, Château Beychevelle has reflected the elegance and finesse of Saint Julien's finest terroirs.Graceful and complex, with a tremendous aromatic richness, Château Beychevelle is made from the best plots in the vineyard and undergoes a rigorous selection process.It reveals its character after about ten years, and can be kept for several decades, depending on the vintage.

Aging and fining: In French oak barrels for 18 months, with 50% in new oak barrels. The wine is then fined with egg whites, with traditional racking by candle light.

40 000 to 50 000 cases

Pictures: Barrel Cellar Tour

Amiral de Beychevelle
Château Beychevelle's Second Wine

The rigorous selection process undergone by the grand vin results in the creation of its younger brother, Amiral de Beychevelle.Despite being made from young vines, Amiral de Beychevelle benefits from the same growing techniques, meticulous sorting, and traditional barrel ageing.It has the same elegance and finesse as its older brother, but reveals its character more quickly, offering wine-enthusiasts the full vivacity of its youth. It can be kept for up to fifteen years, depending on the vintage.

Aging and fining: In French oak barrels for 12 months, with 30% in new oak barrels. The wine is then fined with egg whites, with traditional racking by candle light.

Pictures: Tasting with Philippe Blanc, Managing Director

Brulières de Beychevelle

Brulières de Beychevelle's 12 hectares of vines are 5 km from Beychevelle's vineyard; being further from the Gironde estuary, they benefit from a cooler climate.The vineyard is in the Haut-Médoc appellation and has been managed organically since 2008.Brulières' blend consists of just two grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.Vinified and aged in a separate winery, it is produced with the same level of care as Château Beychevelle and Amiral de Beychevelle.

The Wines we Tasted

2012 Amiral de Beychevelle

Wine-searcher average price in US$: 41

Nose of black fruit and spices. Delicious, full-flavoured attack and an elegant finish.

2012 Château Beychevelle Grand Cru Classé

Wine-searcher average price in US$: 107

The grand vin, the 2012 Beychevelle, is one of the stars of St.-Julien. Opaque purple, with beautiful crème de cassis notes, the wine has floral underpinnings, sweet tannin and a nice layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel. This is elegant and powerful, rich and intense, but light on its feet. This is a great Beychevelle and certainly seems to exceed the vintage’s character and expectations. Give it 4-6 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 25-30 years. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. Rating: 92+

2016 Château Beychevelle Grand Cru Classé

Wine-searcher average price in US$: 107

The 2016 Beychevelle is a blend of 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc cropped at 45 hectoliters per hectare between 3 October and 18 October. It is matured in 50% new oak. Furthermore, it is the first vintage to be matured in the new chichi winery whose glass exterior overlooks the passing traffic on the D2. It has a very pure, fragrant bouquet with black cherries, cassis, cedar and wet limestone, extremely precise to the point where you might think it was from the Right Bank (logical given the proportion of Merlot in the blend). The palate is sensational: understated at first and bridled with ultra-fine tannin, it is a Beychevelle armed with a disarming sense of symmetry. It builds in the mouth towards a fabulously tensile finish that is so fresh and full of energy that the senses are almost overwhelmed. Frankly, it leaves all the other Beychevelles in recent years standing. This is an electrifying 2016 from winemaker Philippe Blanc and his right-hand man, technical director, Romain Ducolomb. Drink 2026 - 2060.
Score: 96/98 Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (230), April 2017

Bye-bye

Many thanks Philippe for a great tour and tasting.

Pictures: Bye-bye

Philippe Blanc in Washington DC

A few months before the Bordeaux Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours, Annette had organized a winemaker dinner with Philippe (and Sophie Schÿler, Owner, Château Kirwan, Appellation Margaux, 3ième Grand Cru Classé en 1855) at the French Embassy in Washington DC.

↧

Cancellation: Alsace and Germany-South Tour May 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours

March 22, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: The Michelin-starred Restaurants in Frankfurt/ Germany (Michelin Deutschland 2020)

≪ Previous: Tour and Tasting at Château Beychevelle, Appellation Saint-Julien, 4ième Grand Cru Classé, with Philippe Blanc, Managing Director - Bordeaux Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2019, France

Picture: Dinner in Beautiful Riquewhir, Alsace. See: The Sun-Kissed South: Germany’s Pinot Noir, the Other Whites, the Culinary Regions - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

Annette sent out this e-mail to those who signed up for the tour.

Dear All,

it is with a heavy heart that I have to inform you that I eventually decided to cancel the tour scheduled for May.

This is not even my personal decision. The decision was made for me by the Covid-19 pandemic and how this is spreading and becoming more serious as the days go by and impacting the entire globe.

At this point and in view of this unprecedented situation I can not even offer an exact date for rescheduling the tour. However I can assure you that this tour will take place with exactly the same program at a later date, preferably in the fall 2020. When the time comes to think about a new date, I would love to discuss the date with all of you so that it would fit into everyone’s schedule.

Let us all be responsible and taking precautions not to get sick.

Stay healthy - that’s the most important issue right now.

Best
Annette

Annette Schiller, Diplom-Volkswirt
ombiasy | PR
WINE tours | education | events
Washington DC - Frankfurt am Main
T: +1 (703) 459.7513
T: +49 (0) 177.337.0281
aschiller@ombiasypr.com
web: ombiasypr.com
blog: schiller-wine.blogspot.com - Finalist Millésima Blog Awards 2015
Professional Member of the American Wine Society - AWS

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

The Michelin-starred Restaurants in Frankfurt/ Germany (Michelin Deutschland 2020)

March 24, 2020, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Postponed: Rhône Valley Tour June 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

≪ Previous: Cancellation: Alsace and Germany-South Tour May 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours

Pictures: Château Mouton Rothschild 1979 Magnum and other Fine Wines at Weinsinn in Frankfurt, Germany

The Michelin Deutschland 2020: Hotels & Restaurants was released on March 6. In Frankfurt, my home-base when I am in Germany, the Michelin 2020 Deutschland lists 9 starred restaurants. I have eaten in all of them and written on schiller-wine about most of them.

There is no restaurant in Frankfurt with 3 Michelin stars, there are 2 with 2 Michelin stars and 7 with 1 Michelin star.

Here are the 9 Michelin-starred restaurants, in alphabetical order:

Carmelo Greco with Chef Carmelo Greco, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: Carmelo Greco offers Italian-cum-Mediterranean cuisine based on the use of good, fresh ingredients. This can be enjoyed in the attractively elegant and modern interior or outside on the pretty terrace. Popular lunch menu.

Erno's Bistro with Valéry Mathis, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: The very epitome of savoir vivre, this charming little bistro could hardly be more authentic with its panelling and traditional decor of lamps and wine bottles. A lively atmosphere and simple, fully flavoured, French food made from the finest ingredients complete the picture.

Restaurant Français with Chef Patrick Bittner, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: The best quality produce is used here to create subtle, beautifully balanced, unusual combinations that you can enjoy in the stylish, high-ceilinged dining rooms served by the attentive front-of-house team. In summer, enjoy alfresco dining outside in the courtyard. The lunchtime menu offers great value for money.

Picture: John Kolasa, Sommelier Franck Mouzon and Panos Kakaviatos. See: Winemaker Dinner with John Kolasa (Château Canon und Château Rauzan Ségla) and Wine Journalist Panos Kakaviatos at Restaurant Le Français in Frankfurt, Germany

Gustav, with Chef Jochim Busch, 2 Michelin Stars

Michelin 2020: High-quality, stylish and straightforward. The modern decor of this restaurant is also reflected in the cuisine which is highly individual and attractively minimalist with a beautiful interplay of contrasts and textures. Some of the tables offer a view of the kitchen. Smaller lunchtime menu on Fridays.

Picture: Outstanding Dinner at Gustav - 1 Star Michelin - in Frankfurt, Germany, with Chef Jochim Busch

Lafleur with Chef Andreas Krolik, 2 Michelin Stars

Michelin 2020: Lafleur serves beautifully presented, classic yet modern cuisine full of masterful aromatic combinations. Set in a glazed, Bauhaus-style annex to the prestigious Palmengarten hospitality complex, it also offers an upmarket, minimalist-style interior and attractive walk-in temperature-controlled wine store.

Restaurant Villa Merton with Chef André Großfeld, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: André Großfeld offers a skilful combination of classic and modern, creating sophisticated dishes that are full of flavour. The interior of this listed villa in the diplomatic quarter is upmarket, the service friendly, professional and attentive.

Picture: Dinner at Restaurant Villa Merton, with 1 Star Michelin Chef André Großfeld, Frankfurt, Germany

Seven Swans with Chef Ricky Saward, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, SEVEN SWANS is it. Sit back and take in the cool, hip vibe, with floor-to-ceiling windows affording a great view of the River Main in Frankfurt’s narrowest building (seven storeys high! ). Enjoy vegan cuisine made from organic produce (many of the ingredients come from the restaurant’s own farm not far away) in the relaxed dining room.

Picture: Chef Jan Hoffmann, Seven Swans, Serving. See: Dinner at Seven Swans (Chef: Jan Hoffmann, 1 Star Michelin) in Frankfurt, Germany

Tiger-Gourmetrestaurant with Chef Coskun Yurdakuls, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: If you value exclusivity and privacy, you’ll be in your element in this elegant restaurant, which has the ambience of an English club. Occupying the same building as the Variety Theatre, the restaurant comprises small rooms and alcoves where professional staff serve flavoursome, modern cuisine prepared from top-quality produce.

Weinsinn, with Chef Daniel Pletsch and Head Chef Jochim Busch, 1 Michelin Star

Michelin 2020: You’ll need to ring the bell to gain access to this city-centre restaurant in the Bahnhofsviertel. Once inside, you’ll find a smart, high-ceilinged room designed in the minimalist style which provides the ideal setting for modern, creative, pared-down cuisine which is strong on texture and contrasts. The staff are as friendly as they are professional.

Picture: Dinner at the "New" Weinsinn in Frankfurt, Germany, with Owner Matthias Scheiber. See: Phantastic Dinner at the "New" Weinsinn in Frankfurt, Germany

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Postponed: Rhône Valley Tour June 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

March 31, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Happy Easter and Passover 2020

≪ Previous: The Michelin-starred Restaurants in Frankfurt/ Germany (Michelin Deutschland 2020)

Pictures: At the Pont du Gard in the Southern Rhône Valley

Annette sent out this e-mail to those who signed up for the tour on March 31, 2020.

Dear All,

it is with a very, very heavy heart that I have to inform you that I have to cancel the tour scheduled for June.

This is not at all my personal decision. The decision was made for me by the Covid-19 pandemic and how this is spreading and becoming more serious as the days go by and impacting the entire globe. Believe me I was so much looking forward to the travel with you to the beautiful Rhône Valley but it would be totally irresponsible to hang on to the possibility of traveling in early June.

It is incredible how fast and violently the virus races around the world. It is just 17 days ago when I wrote you that there are 2,300 cases in France. Looking at the numbers in France and Germany today and at the situation in the US - my email of March 14th sounds like a message from another world.

At this point and in view of this unprecedented situation I can not even offer an exact date for rescheduling the tour. However I can assure you that this tour will take place with exactly the same program at a later date, preferably in the fall 2020. When the time comes to think about a new date, I would love to discuss the date with all of you so that it would fit into everyone’s schedule.

Let me know if you prefer to have your deposit payment refunded or if you want to leave the downpayment for the future tour.

Let us all be responsible and taking precautions not to get sick.

Stay healthy - that’s the most important issue right now.

Best

Annette
Annette Schiller, Diplom-Volkswirt

ombiasy | PR
WINE tours | education | events
Washington DC - Frankfurt am Main
T: +1 (703) 459.7513
T: +49 (0) 177.337.0281
wine.blogspot.com - Finalist Millésima Blog Awards 2015
Professional Member of the American Wine Society - AWS
Founding Member of the WFK Hochheim, Wine Brotherhood of Hochheim, Rheingau, Germany

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Happy Easter and Passover 2020

April 13, 2020, 3:30 am

≫ Next: Dining with Friends in Times of the Coronavirus Lockdown using Zoom

≪ Previous: Postponed: Rhône Valley Tour June 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller in Frankfurt, Germany, Easter 2020

Dear wine friends,

I want to wish you and your family a Happy Easter and Passover. These are difficult times and Easter and Passover 2020 are different from all previous holiday celebrations we had in our lifetime.

With a heavy heart I cancelled all wine tours programmed for 2020. The Covid-19 pandemic is racing around the world and becoming more serious as the days go by. I knew the virus would spread but I can’t fully wrap my brain around it yet. Slowly but surely it dawns on me that we all will be in this for quite some time and that group travel will probably not possible for the rest of this year.

The tours scheduled for this year will take place in 2021. At this point and in view of this unprecedented situation I can not yet offer an exact date for rescheduling the tours but I keep you in the loop as soon as I have firm plans.

I use these quiet times to do research and to plan tours to new destinations: the Loire Valley, Austria, and to the cradle of wine: the beautiful country of Georgia.

Let us all be responsible and taking precautions not to get sick.

Celebrate these days with family and friends (digitally) and stay healthy.

Best
Annette

Annette Schiller, Diplom-Volkswirt
ombiasy | PR
WINE tours | education | events
Washington DC - Frankfurt am Main
T: +1 (703) 459.7513
T: +49 (0) 177.337.0281
aschiller@ombiasypr.com
web: ombiasypr.com
blog: schiller-wine.blogspot.com - Finalist Millésima Blog Awards 2015
Professional Member of the American Wine Society - AWS
Founding Member of the WFK Hochheim, Wine Brotherhood of Hochheim, Rheingau, Germany

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Postponed: Alsace and Germany-South Tour May 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours

Postponed: Rhône Valley Tour June 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

↧

Dining with Friends in Times of the Coronavirus Lockdown using Zoom

April 16, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: LiquidLife at Home with Carolin Spanier of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot, and TV Chef Frank Brunswig, Germany

≪ Previous: Happy Easter and Passover 2020

Pictures: Dining with Friends in Times of the Coronavirus Lockdown using Zoom

A few days ago we had our first online dinner, using the Zoom app. There were 5 of us in three different locations. The dinner started at 7:30 pm and lasted 6 hours. We all enjoyed the online dinner very much. The Zoom app is a fantastic tool to allow social contacts in times of social distancing.

Restaurant 360 Grad

The food was from the 1 Star Michelin Restaurant 360 Grad in Limburg, about an hour from Frankfurt, and the wines were from Cool Climate, a wine store in Frankfurt specialising in natural wines,.

Pictures: Chef Alexander Hohlwein and his Partner in Life and Business Rebekka Weickert

The food came in a large Restaurant 360 Grad Foodbox, containing the semi-finished, cold food, mainly in vacuum bags, and instructions from Chef Alexander Hohlwein on how to finalize the preparation of the food. Annette spent 10 to 20 minutes in the kitchen before each course, while I was opening the next wine.

Pictures: Restaurant 360 Grad Foodbox

The dinner was orchestrated by Dirk Eisel who is quickly emerging as the guru of online dining and wining.

Picture: Dirk Eisel and Christian Schiller. See: Winemaker Dinner with Christoph Wolber of New-wave Producer Weingut Wasenhaus, Baden, at Schaumahl, Offenbach/ Frankfurt, 16 Points Gault Millau, Germany

3-Course Dinner

This was a 3-course dinner. We had a choice between 3 to 4 options for each course. We all took the sushi to start with. Annette and I had veal with asparagus as main course. The others had fish. Annette and I ended the meal with a dessert, the others with a cheese plat.

Pictures: The Dinner

Thank you and Zoom Happy Hour

The Restaurant 360 Grad Foodbox Menu that Chef Alexander Hohlwein and Rebekka Weickert offert last weekend (easter weekend) was a big success. They sold more than 100 foodboxes as Alexander and Rebekka say here in a facebook message to their clients.

For the coming weekend, Annette and I were invited to a Zoom Happy Hour with friends in the Washington DC area.

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Postponed: Alsace and Germany-South Tour May 2020 by Ombiasy WineTours

Postponed: Rhône Valley Tour June 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Winemaker Dinner with Christoph Wolber of New-wave Producer Weingut Wasenhaus, Baden, at Schaumahl, Offenbach/ Frankfurt, 16 Points Gault Millau, Germany

The Michelin-starred Restaurants in Frankfurt/ Germany (Michelin Deutschland 2020)

↧

LiquidLife at Home with Carolin Spanier of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot, and TV Chef Frank Brunswig, Germany

May 11, 2020, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 1 - Weingut Wagner-Stempel and Weingut Dönnhoff

≪ Previous: Dining with Friends in Times of the Coronavirus Lockdown using Zoom

Picture: LiquidLife at Home with Carolin and H.O. Spanier of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot, and TV Chef Frank Brunswig, Germany

Annette and I enjoyed very much LiquidLife at Home with Carolin Spainer of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot, and TV Chef Frank Brunswig on Thursday, May 7, 2020, an online event where Chef Frank Brunswig was cooking and Carolin Spanier presenting her wines in Hohen-Sülzen, Rheinhessen, while Annette and I were in the kitchen at our home in Frankfurt, connected via facebook. It was the first LiquidLife at Home event. It went very well. Congratulations!

Picture: LiquidLife at Home with Carolin Spainer of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot, and TV Chef Frank Brunswig, Germany

Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot are among Germany's estates that have reached world-class status. They are owned and run by the winermaker couple H.O.Spanier and Carolin Spanier-Gillot.

Picture: VDP.Rheinhessen Invited to a Gala Dinner: The World Class Wines of the VDP.Rheinhessen Winemakers and the World Class Food of Philipp Stein (1 Star Michelin, Favorite), with Klaus Peter Keller, Philipp Wittmann, H.O.Spanier, Carolin Gillot-Spanier and Other Rheinhessen Stars

Pictures: Christian Schiller with H. O. Spanier and Carolin Spanier-Gillot at a Tasting in Bodenheim. See: The Wine Maker Couple H.O. Spanier and Carolin Spanier-Gillot, with Roland Gillot, Lead Wine Tasting of Kuehling-Gillot and Battenfeld-Spanier Wines at Weingut Kuehling-Gillot, Germany

Carolin has been hosting LquidLife since 2015, typically in Bodenheim, in the posh tasting room/ restaurant/ event location of Weingut Kühling-Gillot, where she grew up and which she took over from her parents after her studies in Geisenheim.

Carolin Spanier: Wine is a rare feeling of joy capable of bringing high culture and uninhibited joy into harmony. At our winegrowing estate, we speak to the whole person, starting with our architectonic concept and our wines but ultimately winning hearts and minds through our boundless warmth. As Goethe wrote: Here I am a man, here dare it to be! Our LiquidLife in Bodenheim offers a range of high-end connoisseur events, bringing a metropolitan flair to our humble Rheinhessen stage. Star chefs and sommeliers from well-known wine bars in Berlin, Hamburg and Vienna come here to Bodenheim to cook and delight you. All the class, but none of the big city pomp and circumstance. Rather: Immaculate yet relaxed. Honest but never brash.

Pictures: A LiquidLife Event in Bodenheim at Weingut Kuehling-Gillot. See: The Wine Maker Couple H.O. Spanier and Carolin Spanier-Gillot, with Roland Gillot, Lead Wine Tasting of Kuehling-Gillot and Battenfeld-Spanier Wines at Weingut Kuehling-Gillot, Germany

Annette and I have been to a number of LiquidLife events in Bodenheim already. The LiquidLife at Home event with TV Chef Frank Brunswig took place in Hohen-Sülzen at Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier, where Carolin lives with her husband H.O. Spanier and their children. Most of the events of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot take place in Bodenheim, but some also in Hohen-Sülzen. In fact, for our last ombiasy WineTours visit, Carolin asked us to join her at her home Hohen-Sülzen. The outlay of the villa allows for receiving guests in an intimite way, which is more difficult in the event location in Bodenheim. See: Tasting the Wines of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot at the Spanier Family Home in Hohen-Sülzen and Touring the Winery with Carolin Spanier-Gillot - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

Pictures: Tasting the Wines of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot in Hohen-Sülzen, with Carolin Spanier-Gillot. See: Tasting the Wines of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot at the Spanier Family Home in Hohen-Sülzen and Touring the Winery with Carolin Spanier-Gillot - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

LiquidLife at Home mit TV Chef Frank Brunswig

Buying

We picked up the wines at Weingut Kühling-Gillot in Bodenheim a couple of days before the event. Alternatively they offered to send us the wines by DHL.

Picture: Picking up the Wines

From Bodenheim, we went to the Tuesday market in Mainz to buy the ingredients for the 2 courses, Chef Frank Brunswig had communicated to Annette.

Picture: At the Market in Mainz

The Baerlauch, we picked up in the forrest during our daily bike tours.

Picture: Collecting Baerlauch on a Bike Tour

Chef Brunswig had also given instructions in terms of preparatory work and arranging the ingedients in the kitchen. I had put the wines in the fridge to cool them down.

Pictures: The Wines

Finally, I had put the computer in the kitchen so Annette could hear and see what Chef Frank Brunswig was doing.

Cooking

At 6:30 pm the show started. Chef Brunswig cooked for 90 minutes. Annette followed his instructions in our kitchen. At the same time, Carolin presented the 3 wines and we tasted them briefly. One also could comment and ask questions via the comment function, what I did..

Pictures: Cooking

Dinner

After the show, Annette and I moved to the dining room and enjoyed the meal in tranquility.

Pictures: Dinner

We started with the 2009 Battenfeld-Spanier, Blanc de Blanc, Extra Brut, Sekt

Annette Schiller: An absolutely phenomenal "Champagne" - yes I know, legally I can not say "Champagne", but this German Sekt (9 years on lees) has all the characteristics of a fabulous Ch.......... The bubbles are ultra fine and delicate, hmmmm this is sooo good. .

Picture: 2009 Battenfeld-Spanier, Blanc de Blanc, Extra Brut, Sekt

Salad

2019 Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier, Grüner Sylvaner

Asparagus Salad with Pears, strawberries and Baerlauch Pancake

Pictures: Asparagus Salad

Main Course

Cod, Mousse of Carrots, Potato Chips, Green Asparagus in Tempura Dough. Annette Schiller: Instead of the prescribed pastinaken I used carrots (did not find any pastinaken on the market in Mainz).

Pictures: Cod with Mousse of Carrots

Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot

Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot are among Germany's wineries that have reached world-class status. They are owned and run by the winermaker couple H.O.Spanier and Carolin Spanier-Gillot.

It was only in 1993 that H.O. Spanier founded Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier in Hohen-Sülzen at the southernmost tip of the Rheinhessen Wonnegau region. Weingut Kühling-Gillot can look back to a longer history. It is located in the north of the Rheinhessen region, close to Mainz. Carolin took over the winery from her parents after she finished her studies at Geisenheim University.

Since their marriage, Carolin and H.O. have reorganized and streamlined the operations of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot two wineries quite a bit.

There is no wine made in Bodenheim at Weingut Kühling-Gillot any more. The winemaking facilities of both Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot are in Hohen-Sülzen.

H.O. takes the lead in terms of winemaking for both wineries and Carolin is more active on the administrative and marketing side of both wineries.

Carolin and H.O. have constructed a lovely tasting room in Bodenheim at Weingut Kühling-Gillot which is the central place for selling and marketing the wines of both Weingut Kühling-Gillot and Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier. You cannot buy wine of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier in Hohen-Sülzen, but only in Bodenheim.

Carolin and H.O. live with their children in Hohen-Sülzen in a posh villa just next to the winemakng facilities of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot.

Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier/ VDP

VDP: This estate is located in Hohen-Sülzen at the southernmost tip of the Wonnegau district, not far from Worms. The best vineyards are transversed by thick, underground beds of limestone from which the roots of the vines can absorb their final nutrients during the hot months of summer. Proprietor H.O. Spanier makes wine in an uncompromisingly natural manner. Thus, it comes as no surprise that he has cultivated his vines biodynamically since 2005. For Spanier, Riesling acts as a translator that interprets the influence of the southern Wonnegau’s extremely lime-rich soils in wine. “That’s what interests me: the spectrum of aromas of the stones and soil that lies beyond the fleeting sensation of fruit.”

Owner H.O. Spanier & Carolin Spanier-Gillot
Winemaker H.O. Spanier
VDP member since 2008
Hectares of vineyards 34
Bottle production 150 000
Grape varieties 70% Riesling, 18% Spätburgunder sowie Weissburgunder & Silvaner

Vineyards

KIRCHENSTÜCK, Hohen-Sülzen| VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
FRAUENBERG, Nieder-Flörsheim | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
ZELLERWEG AM SCHWARZEN HERRGOTT, Mölsheim | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
Monsheim | aus VDP.ERSTEN LAGEN®
Mölsheim | aus VDP.ERSTEN LAGEN®
Hohen-Sülzen | aus VDP.ERSTEN LAGEN®

Pictures: Touring the Wine Cellar in Hohen-Sülzen with Carolin Spanier-Gillot. See: See: Tasting the Wines of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot at the Spanier Family Home in Hohen-Sülzen and Touring the Winery with Carolin Spanier-Gillot - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

Weingut Kühling-Gillot/ VDP

This wine estate lies in Bodenheim, not far from the renowned “Roter Hang” (red slope) – the porous red mix of slaty clay and sandstone that rises from the earth like a boulder near Nackenheim, only to disappear a few kilometers southward in Nierstein. The nearly 300-million-year-old ribbon of primary rock that surfaces here brings forth very distinctive wines. Organic viticulture is a fundamental prerequisite. At Kühling-Gillot, the usual late harvest, painstaking selection, and spontaneous fermentation in large oak casks enable the red slate to be perceptible in the wines. In their youth, the wines are charming and smooth; with time, they reveal their origin.

Owner Carolin Spanier-Gillot und H.O. Spanier
Winemaker H.O. Spanier
VDP member since 1997
Hectares of vineyards 18
Bottle production 90 000
Grape varieties 73% Riesling, 15% Spätburgunder

Vineyards

ORBEL, Nierstein | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
PETTENTHAL, Nierstein | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
ÖLBERG, Nierstein | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
HIPPING, Nierstein | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
BURGWEG, Bodenheim | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
KREUZ, Oppenheim | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
ROTHENBERG, Nackenheim | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
SACKTRÄGER, Oppenheim | VDP.GROSSE LAGE®
Bodenheim | aus VDP.ERSTEN LAGEN®
Nierstein | aus VDP.ERSTEN LAGEN®

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

VDP.Rheinhessen Invited to a Gala Dinner: The World Class Wines of the VDP.Rheinhessen Winemakers and the World Class Food of Philipp Stein (1 Star Michelin, Favorite), with Klaus Peter Keller, Philipp Wittmann, H.O.Spanier, Carolin Gillot-Spanier and Other Rheinhessen Stars

The Wine Maker Couple H.O. Spanier and Carolin Spanier-Gillot, with Roland Gillot, Lead Wine Tasting of Kuehling-Gillot and Battenfeld-Spanier Wines at Weingut Kuehling-Gillot, Germany

Tasting the Wines of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot at the Spanier Family Home in Hohen-Sülzen and Touring the Winery with Carolin Spanier-Gillot - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

Winemaker of the Year - Vinum WeinGuide Deutschland 2018: Carolin Gillot-Spanier and H.O. Spanier, Weingut Kühling-Gillot and Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier

Falstaff Winemaker of the Year 2015: Carolin Spanier Gillot, Weingut Kühling-Gillot and Weingut BattenfeldSpanier, Germany

Doepfner’s im Maingau Meets Frankfurt/Wein, with Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Chat Sauvage, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

T

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 1 - Weingut Wagner-Stempel and Weingut Dönnhoff

May 25, 2020, 4:00 am

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 2 - Weingut Wittmann and Weingut Knipser

≪ Previous: LiquidLife at Home with Carolin Spanier of Weingut Battenfeld-Spanier and Weingut Kühling-Gillot, and TV Chef Frank Brunswig, Germany

Picture: Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Wagner-Stempel in Siefersheim, Rheinhessen, with Winemaker Oliver Müller and Owner Cathrin Wagner - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 1

Annette Schiller: Since the pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you. Sold-out: Alsace + Germany/South Tour by ombiasy WineTours.

Today is Day 01 of the tour.

The group would have met in the Hotel Hilton in the beautiful city of Mainz, one of the Wine Capitals of the world. The afternoon would have taken us to two of the outstanding wineries in the Rheinhessen and Nahe wine region: Weingut Wagner-Stempel and Weingut Dönnhoff. All pictures were taken by Christian Schiller on previous visits. I really, really miss being able to travel with you. To plan and implement the tours is soooo much work but also soooo much pleasure for me.

Pictures: In Mainz, at Weingut Wagner-Stempel and at Weingut Dönnhoff

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Visting at Weingut Dönnhoff, Oberhausen, Nahe. with Anne Dönnhoff - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Wagner-Stempel in Siefersheim, Rheinhessen, with Winemaker Oliver Müller and Owner Cathrin Wagner - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 2 - Weingut Wittmann and Weingut Knipser

May 27, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 3 - Weingut Sven Niger and Weingut Schloss Neuweier/ Robert Schätzle

≪ Previous: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 1 - Weingut Wagner-Stempel and Weingut Dönnhoff

Picture: Tour and Tasting at Weingut Wittmann in Westhofen, Rheinhessen, with Philipp Wittmann - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 2

Since the Pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you. Sold-out: Alsace + Germany/South Tour by ombiasy WineTours

Today is Day 02 of the tour.

After a good night sleep at the Hilton Hotel in Mainz we head out to explore the southern part of the Rheinhessen region. Rheinhessen is with 65,000 acres under vine Germany's largest wine region. We travel through rolling hills covered with vineyards as far as the eye can see. Our first visit today will be Weingut Wittmann, a family estate since 1663 focusing on Riesling. Philipp Wittmann converted to biodynamic viticulture in 2004. His Rieslings grow on limestone and produce beautiful wines with tension, depth, and an incredible intensity.

After touring the cellars and a thorough tasting our stomachs start to growl and we continue south to Bissersheim to have lunch at Knipser's Halbstück, a wonderful restaurant part of Weingut Knipser. Of course, after lunch we visit the winery just five minutes down the road. Here we have the chance to taste Riesling and wines from the Burgundy grapes. The Grand Cru Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder) is phenomenal. Knipsers are also known for their non-traditional grape plantings such as Cabernet-Sauvignon and Merlot, and for producing cuvées in a "Bordeaux" style.cc Christian Schiller

Pictures: Weingut Wittmann and Weingut Knipser

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Tour and Tasting at Weingut Wittmann in Westhofen, Rheinhessen, with Philipp Wittmann - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 3 - Weingut Sven Niger and Weingut Schloss Neuweier/ Robert Schätzle

June 3, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 4 -Weingut Bercher, Weingut Stigler and Weingut Köbelin

≪ Previous: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 2 - Weingut Wittmann and Weingut Knipser

Picture: Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour (and Lunch) with Robert Schätzle, Owner/ Winemaker, Weingut Schloss Neuweier in Baden - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 3

Annette Schiller: Today (Sunday, May 17) is Day 03 of the 2020 Germany South & Alsace Wine Tour organized by Ombiasy Public Relations and Wine Tours

Since the Pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you.

We would have spent the night in Schifferstadt at the cosy Hotel Salischer Hof with its charming half-timbered architecture. We now leave the Rheinhessen wine region, cross over the Rhein river into the Baden wine region. Baden is with 40,000 acres under vine Germany's 3rd largest wine region. It has a somewhat odd layout with 9 distinctively different districts due to the very different terroir. Baden's wine region basically straddles for 240 miles along the right bank of the Rhine river from Heidelberg to the Swiss border. Lying primarily in the Rhine rift with the protection of the Alsatian Vosges Mountains to the west and the Black Forrest to the east, Baden’s climate is the warmest in Germany. 50% of the vineyard area is planted with Burgundy grapes, almost 50% is red wine.

Our first stop today would be at Weingut Sven Nieger to the south of Baden-Baden, belonging to Baden's Ortenau district, planted predominantly with Riesling. Sven belongs to the young generation of winemakers, sometimes called the "enfants terribles" of the German wine scene because they follow their very own ideas. After some years of sampling experiences abroad he founded his own winery in 2012. The single vineyard Rieslings are powerful, and he shows a sensitive touch for Pinot Noir.

Lunch time is approaching and we we all grab some wine bottles and head out to the vineyards where we would have enjoyed a wine pairing luncheon with Sven and his friend Farid Fazel, renowned chef from Baden-Baden. By the way: the weather today, on Sunday, May 17 was just beautiful. What a shame, that we had to miss out on this vineyard lunch.

In the afternoon we would have just traveled some miles south to meet Robert Schaetzle, owner and winemaker of Weingut Schloss Neuweier. Differences could not have been bigger between our previous visit: here we are at a historic estate where wine making started some 700 years ago. Robert focuses on Riesling and they grow in the steep (60%) vineyards Schlossberg and Mauerberg which were terraced in historical times. The very special microclimate here is the basis for the fresh, minerally, racy wines with excellent aromas of citrus and tropical fruit.

We get sleepy after eating, drinking, tasting and learning and I am sure that everyone will welcome the 1 1/2 hour bus ride to the Boutiquehotel am Stadtgarten in Freiburg where we will spend the night.

Pictures: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 3 - Weingut Sven Niger and Weingut Schloss Neuweier

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour (and Lunch) with Robert Schätzle, Owner/ Winemaker, Weingut Schloss Neuweier in Baden - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 4 -Weingut Bercher, Weingut Stigler and Weingut Köbelin

June 7, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 5 - Weingut Ziereisen, Domaine Dirler-Cadé and Domaine Weinbach

≪ Previous: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 3 - Weingut Sven Niger and Weingut Schloss Neuweier/ Robert Schätzle

Picture: Tasting and Cellar Tour at Weingut Stigler, Baden, with Andreas, Regina and Max Stigler - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 4

Annette Schiller: Today (Monday, May 18) is Day 04 of the 2020 Germany South & Alsace Wine Tour organized by Ombiasy Public Relations and Wine Tours

Since the Pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you.

Today we explore the Kaiserstuhl, one of the 9 sub-regions of Germany's Baden wine region. The Kaiserstuhl region is the warmest grape growing area in Germany and the soils consist of mineral-rich, chalky loess on top of volcanic subsoils. It is a breathtakingly beautiful region. Today we will delve into Germany's wines made from Burgundy grapes. The Kaiserstuhl produces gorgeous Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). Did you know that Germany is the 3rd largest producer of Pinot Noir, the 1st of Pinot Blanc and the 2nd largest producer of Pinot Gris world-wide? We will have a busy day today with visits to three top estates.

Our first visit takes us to Weingut Bercher Arne Bercher in Burkheim, not too far from the French border. The roots of this estate go back to 1457. In 1756 they built the current Manor house with the vaulted underground cellar still in use today. The vineyards are mostly planted with Burgundy grapes (40% Pinot Noir).

We continue to Weingut Stigler in Ihringen. Same here, the majority is planted with Burgundy grapes, but Andreas Stigler loves Riesling and to experiment with non-traditional grape varieties such as Sauvignon-Blanc and Chenin Blanc.

Just across the street from Stigler there is a great restaurant "Holzöfele" where we have lunch. It is asparagus season in Germany and you can guess what we are going to have.

In the afternoon we are going to visit Weingut Köbelin Arndt Köbelin Weingut in Eichstetten. I got to know this estate through a friend of ours and when tasting my first Köbelin Pinot Noir I was hooked. Arndt built an ultra modern, puristic winery with a fantastic terrace guaranteeing for spectacular views on the vineyards and the Black Forest and Vosges mountains.

We return to our hotel in Freiburg and will have some time to think about all the wines we tasted and to explore this cosy town with the famous "Freiburger Münster".

Pictures: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 4 -Weingut Bercher, Weingut Stigler and Weingut Köbelin

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Tasting and Cellar Tour at Weingut Stigler, Baden, with Andreas, Regina and Max Stigler - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 5 - Weingut Ziereisen, Domaine Dirler-Cadé and Domaine Weinbach

June 14, 2020, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 6 - Maison Trimbach, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and La Table de Gourmet

≪ Previous: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 4 -Weingut Bercher, Weingut Stigler and Weingut Köbelin

Picture: 2 Cellar Tours and 1 Tasting at Weingut Ziereisen in Efringen, Markgräfler Land, Baden, with Hanspeter and Edel Ziereisen - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 5

Time flies, today Tuesday, May 19 is already Day 05 of the 2020 Germany South & Alsace Wine Tour organized by Ombiasy Public Relations and Wine Tours

Since the Pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you.

After a good breakfast we leave Freiburg and drive south to the far southwestern corner of Germany where the country borders both Switzerland and France. We arrive in Efringen-Kirchen to visit Weingut Ziereisen. Here we are in another sub-region of Baden, the Markgräfler Land known for producing wines from the Gutedel grape, known as "Chasselat" or "Fendant" in Switzerland. Hanspeter Ziereisen is fanatically dedicated to produce age worthy, stunning Pinot Noir. He is also one of the few in Germany who makes a very, very good Syrah.

See: 2 Cellar Tours and 1 Tasting at Weingut Ziereisen in Efringen, Markgräfler Land, Baden, with Hanspeter and Edel Ziereisen - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

After an extensive tasting we now leave Germany, and cross the Rhein river into France.

Lunch time approaches and we stop at a typical Alsatian restaurant to have Flammkuchen. We can't linger around too much since we still have work to do in the afternoon: visiting two top Alsatian wine domaines.

The first stop is at Domaine Dirler-Cadé in Bergholtz Ludivine Dirler. Since 1998 this domaine works according to biodynamic principles. Almost 50% of their vineyards are Grand Cru vineyard sites and it is here where my all-time favorite Crément d"Alsace is produced.

See: Tasting at Domaine Dirler-Cadé with Jean Pierre Dirler and Ludevine Dirler-Cadé - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

We continue north on the Alsatian wine trail to visit Domaine Weinbach, one of the most prominent and well-known estates in Alsace. They also work biodynamically. The domaine is beautifully situated at the foot of the majestic Schlossberg hill within the 12.5 acres large Clos des Capucines, a former Capuchin monastery.

See: At Domaine Weinbach in Kaysersberg, Alsace, with Catherine Faller: Tasting and Tour – Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), France

Evening is around the corner and we head out to our hotel in Kaysersberg where we will spend the next two nights.

Pictures: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 5 - Weingut Ziereisen, Domaine Dirler-Cadé and Domaine Weinbach

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

2 Cellar Tours and 1 Tasting at Weingut Ziereisen in Efringen, Markgräfler Land, Baden, with Hanspeter and Edel Ziereisen - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

Tasting at Domaine Dirler-Cadé with Jean Pierre Dirler and Ludevine Dirler-Cadé - Germany-South and Alsace 2017 Tour by ombiasy WineTours

At Domaine Weinbach in Kaysersberg, Alsace, with Catherine Faller: Tasting and Tour – Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), France

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 6 - Maison Trimbach, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and La Table de Gourmet

June 17, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 7 - La ferme Versant du Soleil, Domaine Schoenheitz and Le Bistro de la Nouvelle Auberge

≪ Previous: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 5 - Weingut Ziereisen, Domaine Dirler-Cadé and Domaine Weinbach

Picture: Dinner at La Table de Gourmet (Chef: Jean-Luc Brendel, 1 Star Michelin) in Riquewihr, Alsace, France

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 6

It is hard to believe but today (Wednesday, May 20) is already Day 06 of the 2020 Germany South & Alsace Wine Tour organized by Ombiasy Public Relations and Wine Tours.

Since the Pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you.

Last night we already experienced Alsatian hospitality when we gathered at the "Au Lion d'Or" in Kaysersberg for a wonderful meal. Today we will visit two iconic wine estates and will have time to explore the incredibly picturesque, medieval Alsatian villages.

Maison Trimbach Anne Trimbach in Ribeauvillé is our first stop this morning. The wine producing history dates back to 1626; today the estate is run by the 11th, 12th, and 13th generation. Quality rules, Jean Trimbach said "All French 3-star Michelin restaurants carry Trimbach wine".

See: At Maison Trimbach in Alsace with Hubert Trimbach– Germany-South Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014)

Back in Kaysersberg for lunch there is some time to explore the village, the birthplace of Albert Schweizer who received the Nobel Prize in 1952 for his philosophy of "Reverence of Life".

We drive south again to visit Domaine Zind-Humbrecht in Turckheim. Oliver Humbrecht, owner and winemaker was the first Frenchman to have received the Master of Wine title. Oliver Humbrecht was among the first ones in Alsace to convert to biodynamic principles in the vineyard.

For the evening we have a very special treat; we will have dinner in the fabulous 1-star Michelin restaurant La Table du Gourmet" in Riquewhir, one of the most beautiful Alsatian villages. I am sure that Chef Jean-Luc Brendel will prepare a delicious menu for us which we will pair with Alsatian wines.

See: Dinner at La Table de Gourmet (Chef: Jean-Luc Brendel, 1 Star Michelin) in Riquewihr, Alsace, France

Pictures: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 6 - Maison Trimbach, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and La Table de Gourmet

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Dinner at La Table de Gourmet (Chef: Jean-Luc Brendel, 1 Star Michelin) in Riquewihr, Alsace, France

At Maison Trimbach in Alsace with Hubert Trimbach– Germany-South Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014)

↧

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 7 - La ferme Versant du Soleil, Domaine Schoenheitz and Le Bistro de la Nouvelle Auberge

June 21, 2020, 10:30 pm

≫ Next: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 8 - Weingut Ökonomierat Rebholz, Weingut Dr. Wehrheim and Weingut Dr. Bürklin-Wolf

≪ Previous: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 6 - Maison Trimbach, Domaine Zind-Humbrecht and La Table de Gourmet

Picture: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 7: La ferme Versant du Soleil, Domaine Schoenheitz and Le Bistro de la Nouvelle Auberge

The Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours was fully booked but had to be cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Starting on May 15, Annette issued short posts on facebook briefly describing what we would have done on that day had the tour taken place, using pictures from previous tours.

I am re-posting these short daily accounts along with a general introduction to the tour here on my blog.

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours

Germany is so closely identified with Riesling (and yes, it is the largest producer of Riesling world-wide) that you may be surprised to learn that the country is also very strong regarding the Burgundy grapes. It is the third-largest producer of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), the largest producer of Pinot Blanc (Weissburgunder), and the second largest producer of Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder) in the world. Join us as we discover the southern German wine regions that produce bone dry, opulent Rieslings, outstanding Pinot Noirs and whites from Burgundy grapes. We will step across the Rhine River to compare the wines of the Eastern (German) and Western (French) Rhine valley and we will get a feel for the beautiful, quaint Alsace region with its incredible picturesque wine villages dotted with half-timbered century old buildings. Enjoy the Pfalz, the second largest German wine region by growing area and only topped by Rheinhessen, which it borders to the north. From there, the Pfalz stretches to the French border 53 miles to the south and borders Alsace. In this region French and German vineyards melt into one another and some wineries on the French side own vineyards in Germany and vice versa.

For detailed information on the tour schedule, please check: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-itinerary
For pricing and registration, please go to: https://ombiasypr.com/index.php/wine-tours/germany-south/germany-south-alsace-registration

Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: Day 7

Today, Thursday, May 21 is Day 07 of the 2020 Germany South & Alsace Wine Tour organized by Ombiasy Public Relations and Wine Tours

Since the pandemic forced me to cancel the tour I will go on the journey mentally and I will share this tour with you.

Today is a holiday in most of Europe's catholic countries: Ascension Day. Usually lots of people go on day trips to go hiking, to visit the wine country, etc. Not today though, Ascension Day 2020. In France restaurants, hotels, wineries are still closed due to the Covid19 threat; in Germany most of these places opened a week ago but people are reluctant to go out and there still are strict hygienic rules in place that make those outings a lot less fun.

This would have been the last day in Alsatian wine country of our wine tour. We would drive up the Vosges mountains to Wihr-au-Val. Here the famous "Munster" cheese is produced and we are going to visit a cheese dairy La ferme Versant du Soleil. We could pet the cows, visit the barns, and Monsieur Mader will show us everything there is to know about making Munster cheese.

Just in the neighborhood there is Vins Schoenheitz Dominique Schoenheitz. After tasting Munster cheese we very much welcome cleansing our palate with the excellent, pure, mineral wines of this domaine. Domaine Schoenheitz cultivates 45 acres of vineyards which are entirely concentrated on the very steep slopes of the magnificent Valley of Munster. These are the highest vineyards in Alsace with granitic soils and extreme conditions for vine growing.

See also:Winemaker Dinner with Adrien Schoenheitz, Owner/ Winemaker, Domaine Schoenheitz in Alsace and Chef Chef Jacques Haeringer at L'Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls/ Northern Virginia/ USA

We are very lucky, lunch time is approaching and besides a cheese dairy, and a winery Wihr-au-Val also boasts of a 1 star Michelin restaurant Le Bistro de la Nouvelle Auberge. Chef Bernard Leray will prepare a fantastic menu and Adrien Schoenheitz, who will join us for the luncheon, will perfectly pair his wine with the dishes. This day is a perfect finale to our journey through Alsatian wines and culture.

I must admit that for me the Alsace is the most beautiful wine region: the unbelievable quaint medieval villages, home to a huge population of storks, the vineyards on the gentle slopes of the Vosges mountains, - the entire region is an eye candy.

For us is time to say Good By to France and to head north to Germany's Pfalz wine region. After a three hour bus ride we will spend the night in Landau, in the heart of the southern Pfalz wine region.

Pictures: Germany/ South and Alsace Tour 2020 by ombiasy WineTours: A Mental Tour in Times of Covid-19, Day 7: La ferme Versant du Soleil, Domaine Schoenheitz and Le Bistro de la Nouvelle Auberge

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Announcement: Upcoming ombiasy Wine Tours 2020 - (1) Alsace and Germany South, (2) Rhône Valley, (3) Bordeaux and (4) Germany: Christmas Market, Wine, Concert Tour

Reminder: Rhône Valley Tour by ombiasy WineTours in June 2020

Annual Riesling Party at the Schiller Residence in Washington DC, USA (2019)

Winemaker Dinner with Adrien Schoenheitz, Owner/ Winemaker, Domaine Schoenheitz in Alsace and Chef Chef Jacques Haeringer at L'Auberge Chez Francois in Great Falls/ Northern Virginia/ USA

↧