Weingut Christine and Franz Netzl is one of Austria’s leading wine producers, located in the Carnuntum, south-east of Vienna. 

I met Franz and Christine Netzl for the first time in 2010, when they introduced their wines with importer Klaus Wittauer to the American market. 

A year later, during the summer of 2011, I went over to Austria for a wedding in the Burgenland; I gave the Netzls a call and they were so nice to invite me over to the Estate. We spent a lovely afternoon together at their winery, which ended on the terrace of the Netzls with a glass of Zweigelt, watching a photo shooting session for the new Netzl catalog.

Now, a Zoom tasting during the corona period with Christina Artner Netzl and Klaus Wittauer arranged by Chain Bridge Cellars in McLean, Virginia. The event started at 5:00 in the afternoon in McLean while it was 23:00 in Austria. 

Wine Tastings in the Washington DC Area in times of Covid 

As everywhere else, wine tastings and wine dinners have been drastically cut back in the Washington DC area in the past 18 months due to covid.

This was an online tasting, where the organizer refilled the wines into small badges which the participants could pick up before the tasting. There is a wide spectrum of how tasting events are currently organized in the Washington DC area. 

At the other extreme are events, in-person and indoor, without any restrictions who can attend. I have not been to such an event but I see them being advertised.

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) has moved back to in-person, indoor events, with only vaccinated people allowed to attend and the CDC card checked before one enters the venue.

The Washington Wine and Cheese Seminar, which holds tastings every Tuesday, was moved to a hybrid solution: two in-person and indoor events and two online events per month. For the in-person events, vaccination is required, although not checked when I went. 

Until now, the American Wine Society (John Marshall Chapter) had no rules with regard to vaccination, but all events took place outdoors. With the cooler months arriving and indoor tastings becoming the rule, the chapter just moved to a "vaccinated people only" policy. 

The large majority of restaurants in the Washington DC area do not have any vaccination requirements for indoor dining. However, there is a small group of restaurants that do. The Washingtonian, for example, has put together a list of restaurants where you have to show your CDC card in order to be admitted.

Pictures: Christian Schiller and Christine and Franz Neztl in Washington DC, USA, in 2010. See: Welcome to America: Franz and Christine Netzl Estate, Carnuntum, Austria

Invitation



In Austrian wine circles, Christina Netzl is widely recognized as one of the country’s elite winemakers. She and her family have helped cement the reputation of Carnuntum as a great source of rich but vibrant reds, her Anna-Christina bottling routinely ears 94-95 point ratings from the press, and her 2013 Anna-Christina was named the best wine in all of Austria by a leading publication.

And, as you’ll discover when you join us for this fun and delicious virtual tasting, she’s a joy to talk with and learn from, too! Building on a family legacy dating from the mid-1600s and a decision to become a winemaker made at age 5, Christina is the perfect person to introduce you to the Roman and modern wine history of Carnuntum, describe the unique character of Austria’s smallest wine region, explain her decision to convert to organic farming, and share some breathtakingly beautiful wines! We’ll taste:

• Netzl Chardonnay Carnuntum 2020 (no oak, tons of flavor)
• Netzl Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc) Ried Altenberg 2019 (following up the 93 point 2018)
• Netzl Edles Tal Gottlesbrunn 2018 (Zweigelt/Merlot/Syrah) (93 points the past 3 vintages)
• Netzl Carnuntum Anna-Christina 2017 (Wine Enthusiast 95 points)
• Netzl Carnuntum Anna-Christina 2018 (even better and the US debut!)

You can join in the conversation and try five of Christina’s top bottling for $25 for each set of samples.

We’ll be providing 3oz samples of each wine in airtight pouches prepared the day of the event. Each pouch represents about 60% of a full glass of wine, making a generous tasting pour for one and a just-right sample for two.

Pouches will be available for pick-up at Chain Bridge Cellars from 10am-5pm the day of the event and we’ll email you the Zoom link early next week and again on Sunday.

 

Also joining us online will be our very favorite Austrian wine-master, importer Klaus Wittauer. And, we hope, you!

You can reserve your sample set right now by clicking the button below. You won’t find a more exciting set of wines or a more charming wine guide than Christina anywhere!

 

Visiting Christine, Christina and Franz Netzl at their Weingut Netzl in Carnuntum, Austria

The Netzl Estate is located in the small town of Göttlesbrunn in the Carnuntum. The family has been involved in wine production since 1820. Weimgut Christine and Franz Netzl is regarded as one of those responsible for the red wine boom in Austria.

Pictures: Weingut Christine and Franz Netzl, Carnuntum

The vineyard area totals 26 hectares, with holdings in the Aubühel, Bärnreiser, Haidacker, Holzweg, Kräften and Neuberg sites. 80% of the area is planted with the red varieties Zweigelt, St. Laurent, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, while the remaining 20% is planted with the white varieties Grüner Veltliner, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Welschriesling. A bottle-fermented sparkling wine is also produced. Annual production is around 80.000 bottles of wine, which includes the wine made from grapes on the market, equivalent to about 5 hectares. "We do not want to go beyond 35 hectares in total" said Christine.

In the Winecellar with Christine

The first thing we did after arriving at Weingut Netzl on a Saturday afternoon was to visit the wine cellar with Christine; Franz was still bottling.

Pictures: Franz Netzl Bottling

“Christine” said Franz later when we went to the vineyards together “is the heart and the soul of our house. She combines the pleasure of taste with great sensory talent. She built up our winery together with me.” Christine is a certified sommelier and is responsible for public relations, sales and the office. Christine Netzl is a member of the "Die schwarzen Katzen aus Göttlesbrunn" (black cats of Göttlesbrunn) female winemakers association.

Pictures: With Christine Netzl in the Wine Cellar

Walking through the wine cellar, Christine explained: “We produce mainly complex and structured red wines full of juice (75 %), but also fresh, fizzy and aromatic whites. We try to maintain the elegance, finesse and character of the grapes and the wines to make the sniffer into the glass and the pleasure of the wine a unique experience. Zweigelt definitely is the King of our grapes – very typical for our region and therefore you can find Zweigelt through all our range starting from classic up to premium.”

Weingut Netzl has about 700 barrique barrels; each year, the Netzls buy about 100 new barrels, so they are used for 7 years on average.

In the Vineyard with Franz

After touring the wine cellar and watching Franz finishing bottling wine, Franz took us on a tour of the Weingut Netzl’s vineyards. During the wine cellar tour, Christine said about her husband Franz: “He is the thinker. He skillfully combines tradition, proven methods, and innovation, new technologies! That’s how he brought up the renowned winery from a mixed agricultural farm with only a few vines. After his education at the wine school in Klosterneuburg, he took over from his parents and concentrated fully on making wine.” Franz is responsible for the cellar and vineyards, but he is also involved with public relations and sales.

Pictures: Christian Schiller and Franz Netzl in the Vineyards

“Our vines grow, thrive and ripen on the soft hills of the Arbesthaler Hügelland. In terms of climate, we have a lot of sunshine with enough rainfalls. We get very ripe grapes. We also have cool nights, which helps to make the wine fruity” said Franz while driving through the stunning vineyard area. In term of soil types, loess, loam, gravel and sand prevail. Farming is done on the basis of the concept of sustainability.

Pictures: Christian G.E. Schiller and Franz Netzl in the Vineyards

""Everything is done manually" said Franz.

At the Tasting Bar

After the vineyard tour, Franz had to join Christine and daughter Christina for a photo session in the back yard of their winery. We, in the meantime, were presented the whole range of Netzl wines by a collaborator. Here are the wines we tasted.

Picture: Christine and Franz Netzl at the Tasting Bar

I went through the Netzl portfolio, including the 2009 Anna-Christina.

2009 Weingut Netzl Anna-Christina

The premium blend, dedicated to the Netzl daughters Annemarie and Christina. 60 % Zweigelt - 20 % Merlot – 20 % Cabernet Sauvignon

Vineyard: Bärnreiser, Aubühel, Haidäcker

Soil: Special terroir of the ‘Arbesthaler Hügelland’, nutritious loam and loess

Climate: For the Anna-Christina we use the best vineyard of every single variety. The Zweigelt comes from Haidacker, where he developes his typical very ripe, but also fresh cherry fruit. Merlot grows at Bärnreiser – a very warm place with deep soils and therefore constant ripening. Therefore the wines are deep, structure and full-bodied. Aubühel is the best place for Cabernet Sauvignon, because here he really gets ripe and brings ripe tannin and dark fruit to our blend.

Vinification: Highly ripe grapes were harvested at the end of September and beginning of October by hand and selected, fermented in temeperature controlled stainless steel tanks, the malolactic fermentation as well as the 20-month aging were made in new small French oak barrels

Alc. content 14,5 % Vol; total acidity 4,9 g/l

Tasting notes: Anna-Christina, this blend combines the juicy cherry fruit of the Zweigelt grape, the powerful structure and ripe tannins of the Cabernet Sauvignon and the smooth and velvety of the Merlot; ruby-garnet red with a dark core, dark and juicy berries and spicy nuances in the nose, complex, multi-layered, good tannins, elegance and charm with concentration.

A Final Drink on the Deck with Christina, Franz and Christine

After the tasting, we joined Christina, Franz and Christine (and her husband as well as their little baby) for a last sip of wine – a Zweigelt – while the family was doing a photo shooting session.

Pictures: Photo Shooting Session in the Vineyard

Picture: The last Bottle with Franz Netzl

Here I also met Christina Netzl-Artner, with her husband Peter Artner and little Lena Artner. Peter Artner is the winemaker and junior boss at Weingut Artner, also in the Carnuntum region.

Pictures: Christina Netzl-Artner, with her Husband Peter Artner and little Lena Artner

“Christina” her mother said “is the creative. She is full of ideas and brings new energy and kick into the winery.” In 2007, she finished studies of international wine management and marketing and started to work at the winery. She is responsible for sales, public relations, marketing, the office “and she accompanies the vines from shooting until harvest and the wines from fermenting till bottling” Christine said.

I did not meet Christina’s sister, Annemarie. “She is a whirlwind. She always smiles and inspires” said her father Franz. “After her studies she started to work outside the winery, but spends every free minute with us and always helps out if needed.”

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Welcome to America: Franz and Christine Netzl Estate, Carnuntum, Austria

 

Visiting Christine, Christina and Franz Netzl in their Weingut Netzl in Carnuntum, Austria 

Lunch with Silvia Prieler, Weingut Prieler, Schuetzen am Gebirge, Austria

Producing Wines in Austria and Hungary - Franz and Franz Reinhard Weninger

With the WienWein Winemakers in Vienna in the Heurigen Drinking Gemischter Satz Wine

Schiller’s Favorite Spots to Drink Wine in Vienna, Austria

Tasting Leo Hillinger Red Wines with Leo Hillinger’s Assistant Winemaker Michael Hoeffken and US Importer Klaus Wittauer

Visit: Gerhard Wohlmuth sen. and his Weingut Wohlmuth in Austria

Visiting Leo Hillinger, Michael Hoeffken and Edgar Brutler at the Leo Hillinger Winery in Jois, Austria

Wine Producer Austria - Not Only Gruener Veltliner

At the Forefront of Biodynamic Winemaking: Visiting Werner and Angela Michlits and their Weingut Meinklang in Austria

 

 

Michelin Guide Deutschland 2021: This extremely pleasant little bistro is a tucked away in the heart of the city, just around the corner from the shopping street Fressgass. The owner and the chef are experts through and through, as can be seen not least from the tasty, ambitious market cuisine, e. g. the char, pumpkin, green apple and watercress. Very fairly priced lunch menu. 

In the Michelin Guide Deutschland 2021, bidlabu is listed with a Michelin plate. In the Gault Millau Guide Deutschland 2021, it has 15/ 20 stars. 

Pictures: Dinner at Bidlabu, 15 Points Gault Millau, in Frankfurt, with GM/ Sommelier Dietmar Fritz and Chef André Rickert, Germany

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

Eating at one of Germany`s 30 Restaurants that will shape the Future with their Concepts, according to "Der Feinschmecker" - Al Fresco Dinner at Emma Metzler, with Chef Anton de Bruyn, Frankfurt, Germany

Restaurant SchauMahl as good as ever (and even better?) - New Chef Sascha Ferstl back to his Roots, Offenbach/ Frankfurt, Germany

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

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

Picture: Annette and Christian Schiller with Ernst Loosen, Weingut Dr. Loosen, and Chateau Ste. Michelle`s Head Winemaker Bob Bertheau at Pro-Wein in Düsseldorf

 

 

 

Picture: Cellar Tour at Weingut Kruger-Rumpf with Stefan and Georg Rumpf, Nahe

Wine & Spirits Magazine announced its list of Top 100 Wineries of 2021 a few weeks ago. According to Wine & Spirits Magazine, Wine & Spirits tastes thousands of wines through an exclusive blind tasting process and, from those tastings, the editors select the Top 100 Wineries of the year. From Burgundy in the center of France to Margaret River in Western Australia, these awards call out remarkable portfolios of wines.

This year`s list includes 4 producers from Germany. 

Weingut Dr. Loosen, Mosel

Weingut Fritz Haag, Mosel

Weingut Dönnhoff, Nahe

Weingut Kruger-Rumpf, Nahe

Weingut Dr. Loosen, Mosel 

Situated on Germany’s Mosel River among some of the world’s most treasured vineyards, the Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for more than 200 years.

When Ernst Loosen assumed ownership in 1988, he realized that, with ungrafted vines averaging 60 years old in some of Germany’s top-rated vineyards, he had the raw materials to create stunningly intense, world-class Rieslings.

To achieve this, Ernst immediately changed the estate’s vineyard practices to dramatically reduce crop size. He stopped all chemical fertilization, preferring only moderate use of organic fertilizers and soil amendments.

He extended his commitment to sustainable practices beyond the vineyards and into the winery, implementing improvements in materials recycling, energy efficiency and water conservation.

At harvest, he insisted on fully mature fruit that had been very strictly selected. And he turned to gentler cellar practices that would allow the wine to develop its full potential with a minimum of technological meddling.

Today, Dr. Loosen wines are widely enjoyed around the globe and continue to receive awards and accolades from top reviewers.

Weingut Fritz Haag, Mosel

Loosen Bros. USA: The historic Fritz Haag wine estate is located in the heart of the central Mosel River Valley. The earliest documentation of the estate dates back to 1605. At that time, the village in which it is situated was known as “Dusemond.” In 1925, this village was renamed “Brauneberg” (“brown mountain,” a reference to the color of the slate soil in this area of the Mosel) in an endeavour to further promote the reputation of its world-renowned vineyards “Brauneberger Juffer” and “Brauneberger Juffer Sonnenuhr.”

The name “Juffer,” which translates as “old maid” in the local dialect, goes back to 1790. The proprietor of these exceptional vineyards at the time, the aristocratic Kurpfälzische Kammerherr Wunderlich, had three daughters who all remained unmarried and lived the lives of spinsters. As a consequence, when they took over the vineyard management from their father, the name “Brauneberger Juffer” was born and the wines soon became famed throughout the wine world. The vineyards are recognised as true pearls of the Mosel region and were treasured even by Napoleon.

Pictures: Tasting and Vineyard Walk with Oliver Haag, Weingut Fritz Haag– Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours

For many years, the Fritz Haag wine estate was successfully headed by the endlessly energetic Wilhelm Haag, and achieved under his guidance a world-renowned reputation. Wilhelm Haag was the first to be named Gault Millau’s “Winemaker of the Year,” a highly coveted accolade introduced in 1994. Since 2005, his son Oliver has taken over the reins and has followed his legendary father in leading the estate into the future.

The Fritz Haag estate owns 17.5 ha of vineyards which are all exclusively planted with Riesling. The excellent micro-climate and the deep slate soils of the Brauneberg hillside yield some of the most intensely flavored and elegantly-structured Riesling wines of the Mosel region. Oliver Haag rigorously selects the clones most suited to the microclimate of his vineyards in order to achieve the maximum potential in the grapes. His wines, which display a pleasing subtle color, show a well-defined palate that reaches from honeysuckle to pears and apples. They are laced with citrus and underlying mineral tones, reflecting the slate vineyards of Brauneberg.

The Fritz Haag estate produces wines that cover the full style spectrum, starting from a dry style and ranging to lusciously sweet. A mineral “slate” character and a pronounced and fruity acidity give the wines their sleek sophistication and their great aging potential. The estate’s graceful, well-refined Rieslings are rated as impressive examples of the finest wines the Mosel region has to offer.

Weingut Dönnhoff, Nahe

The Dönnhoff family first came to the Nahe Valley over 200 years ago. The Dönnhoffs were a mixed farm up until the 20th century, with cereal crops, vegetables, fruit and livestock in addition to grapes. Helmut's grandfather Hermann made the transition from mixed farm to focus entirely on winegrowing. Helmut Dönnhoff took over day-to-day responsibility from his father in 1971.

Pictures: Helmut Doennhoff Receiving the Ombiasy Group 

From the initial 4 hectares of land Helmut Dönnhoff expanded the estate to now 25 hectares. Today, his son Cornelius works alongside in the winery; in fact, ownership and responsibility has been formally transferred to Cornelius Dönnhoff.

Pictures: An Afternoon with Riesling Star Winemaker Helmut Doennhoff at Weingut Doennhoff in Oberhausen in the Nahe Valley, Germany

“Most people in wine today make it for business”, Helmut Doennhoff said. “I make it for me, myself”. Helmut Doennhoff compared his winemaking with music and cooking. “There are many wonderful scores, but only a few people can interpret them well. Or it is like a chef: people have the same ingredients but each chef brings another taste to them”.

Helmut Dönnhoff was described by Hugh Johnson as having a "fanatical commitment to quality, and a remarkable natural talent for winemaking" and as a "superstar" of the region by Robert Parker. Helmut Doennhoff was named German Winemaker of the Year in 1999 by the Gault Millau WeinGuide.

80% of Dönnhoff's of vineyard holdings grow Riesling grapes, with the remaining 20% Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris.

Pictures: Tasting with Helmut Doenhoff

“In our family, viniculture has been tradition since 1708 - a tradition that we have been cultivating in our vineyards as well as in our manor house which was built back in 1830” said Georg Rumpf. Stefan Rumpf, Georg’s father, brought Weingut Kruger-Rumpf up to where it is today: After completing his studies in agricultural sciences, including stints in Californian wineries, and conducting research at the Geisenheim research institute, Stefan Rumpf took over the estate from his parents in 1984. Up until then, the wines were sold almost entirely in bulk. Stefan Rumpf changed this and started to bottle his wines and to market the bottles himself. Less than 10 years later, in 1992, Weingut Kruger-Rumpf was invited to join the VDP, the about 200 German elite winemakers, a clear sign of what Stefan Rumpf had achieved over the course of just 8 years.

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller in the Vineyard with Georg Rumpf during a previous Visit of Weingut Kruger-Rump. See: Wine Dinner with Tour at Weingut Kruger-Rumpf in Münster-Sarmsheim, Nahe, with Georg Rumpf – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015) 

Today, Weingut Kruger-Rumpf has 4 (of 5) grapes in the Vinum WeinGuide Deutschland. The vineyard area totals 22 hectares and the annual production is 14.000 cases. The top sites are: Münsterer Dautenpflänzer (slate with sandy loam); Münsterer Pittersberg (slate); Münsterer Rheinberg (weathered quartzite and sandy loam); Binger Scharlachberg Rheinhessen (Rotliegend and porphyry). 

Grape varieties: 65% Riesling, 10% each of Silvaner and Weissburgunder, 5% each of Chardonnay, Grauburgunder and Spätburgunder. In fact, Kruger-Rumpf was the first estate in the Nahe region to plant Chardonnay. 

Georg Rumpf has taken over the winemaking aspect of Weingut Kruger-Rumpf, while his father is now more focusing on sales and general management. 

Weingut Krueger-Rumpf sells 70% of its production in Germany and exports the remaining 30%. Accordingly, “80% of the wines we produce are dry wines” said Georg “and 20% are fruity-sweet and noble-sweet wines.”

 

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Tasting at Weingut Dr. Loosen in Bernkastel-Kues, Mosel, with Ernie Loosen - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

Tasting and Vineyard Walk with Oliver Haag, Weingut Fritz Haag– Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours

An Afternoon with Riesling Star Winemaker Helmut Doennhoff at Weingut Doennhoff in Oberhausen in the Nahe Valley, Germany  

Wine Dinner with Tour at Weingut Kruger-Rumpf in Münster-Sarmsheim, Nahe, with Georg Rumpf – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Kruger-Rumpf, Münster-Sarmsheim, Nahe, with Stefan and Georg Rumpf - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

Annette and I have 4 children, all married, and 8 grandchildren. Our 4 children currently live in Germany, the USA and Gabon. During the summer of 2021, we all gathered in Frankfurt, Germany. One son-in-law and one grandchild were not able to join us. All others were there, a least for a couple of days. 

July 16: Arrival in Frankfurt

July 16: Schwanheim

July 18: Taunus Wunderland

July 29: Rhine Valley 

August 2: Cornelia, Viatrix and Ernst arrive

July 3 + 4

July 5: Mainz

August 7

August 9: Dorothea leaves with her family

August 11: Back to Taunus Wunderland

August 12: Cornelia, Viatrix and Ernst leave

August 12: The End at Desche Otto

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The USA will lift its 18-month covid travel ban on November 8th. We can expect to see again European winemakers in Washington DC. One of the first, if not the first, is star winemaker and chef Christian L. Stahl from Franken, Winemaker of the Year 2018 (FAS, Stuart Pigott). He will be accompanied by Chef Mirko from his fine dining team. 

 

Christian and Mirko are flying over to the USA on November 9th and will spend 2 days in Washington DC before moving on to New York City.  

 

Annette Schiller and I are looking forward to welcoming Christian and Mirko at our home in McLean on Wednesday November 10th for an evening of wining and dining with Washington DC's friends of Christian`s bone dry wines from Franken. 

 

 

Picture: Christian Schiller and Chef Ken. See: A German Riesling Dinner at Open Kitchen in Washington DC, USA

 

Invitation

Dear wine friends,

We would like to invite you to an evening of dining and wining on Wednesday, November 10^th in McLean, VA.

Our friend, winemaker Christian Stahl from the Franken wine region in Germany, can’t wait to visit the US. A day after the US lifts the travel ban next week, he will hop on the plane to Washington DC and New York City.

We can’t wait to get back to organizing wine tastings and wine dinners.

In view of the current Covid-19 situation we decided to host a winemaker dinner with Christian Stahl at our home. To make sure that everyone feels comfortable and safe our guests are required to provide proof of being fully vaccinated.

Christian belongs to the generation of young winemakers in Germany who clearly want to renounce wine folklore, who clearly want to work with grape varieties true to their region, who clearly want to produce only upper premium quality wines. All his wines are bone-dry and excellent food wines. Christian Stahl is Winemaker of the Year 2018 (FAS, Stuart Pigott). 

Some of you may already have met Christian Stahl at a previous winemaker dinner (at BToo or Evo Bistro) or at the recent Zoom tasting of the German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter).

Chef Kenneth Hughes will prepare a four-course meal matching the taste profile of the wines. Chef Ken learned the art of cooking in California at the Culinary School where Wolfgang Puck was one of his mentors. Some of you will remember his excellent cuisine when he was Executive Chef at Open Kitchen in Falls Church. Today he works as private chef in the Northern Virginia area. We were very lucky to be able to hire him on short notice.

Cost of the wine dinner is $ 45 per person (cash or check)

Seats are limited very limited (max 16 guests). Reservations are first come first serve.

We are very much looking forward to seeing you at our home in McLean.

 

Cheers

Annette 

Wine Tours - Wine Events - Wine Education

Annette Schiller

USA: +1 703 459 7513

DE: +49 -177 337 0281

 

(The event is sold out).

 

 

Picture: Annette and Christian Schiller’s Summer of Riesling 2016 in McLean, Virginia, with German Star Winemaker Christian L. Stahl, German Wine Journalist Joachim A.J. Kaiser and Virginia Star Winemaker Chris Pearmund

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Annette and I spent a week in the South of Germany and the West of Austria. We stayed in Lindau, Lake Constance, Germany and in Au, Bregenzerwald, Austria. On the tour, we also were in Switzerland. 

Rigoletto in Bregenz 

Annette and I enjoyed a spectacular performance of Rigoletto in Bregenz, Austria, with the stage floating on Lake Constance. We started the amazing evening with an early dinner in Lindau/ Germany. A ferry brought us to the Opera House in Bregenz/ Austria, with a glass of Champagne preparing everyone for what was to come. After the performance the ferry took us back to Lindau were we ended the evening with a bottle of Italian red wine at a harbour restaurant.

Tour by Boat and Train: Rorschach (Switzerland) - Bregenz (Austria) - Lindau (Germany)

Hiking in Au (Bregenzer Wald)

We stayed at Hotel Krone and had half-board. The food was excellent, in my judgement 13 to 14 points Gault and Millau. The wine list was Austrian wines only and also excellent.

 

Dinner

Hiking

Dinner

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Annette Schiller, President of ombiasy WineTours and member of the American Wine Society, led 3 wine tastings - "All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle", "The Wines of Austria" and "Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux" - at the 2021 National Conference of the American Wine Society.

Pictures: At the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey

The tastings were sponsored by ombiasy WineToursand the wine producers whose wines were presented or their US importers as well as by MacArthur Beverages in Washington DC.

The 2021 American Wine Society National Conference took place at Harrah's Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021.

Pictures: Harrah's Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino 

More than 600 members from all over the USA came to this 3-day event, filled with tastings, seminars and presentations.

As in previous years, Thursday was the day of wine judging. There were full-day courses for those who want to become a certified AWS Wine Judge. This is a 3-year program. Also, the Amateur and Commercial Wine Competitions took place on Thursday.

Friday and Saturday was filled with about 50 wine seminars, led by winery owners, wine educators, and renowned winemakers. The breakfasts, lunches, dinners and after-dinner gatherings provided ample opportunities to network with other AWS members.

Pictures: At the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey (Pictures from facebook)

Annette and I had had planned to attend the whole conference and spend several days at the Harrah`s Resort in Atlantic City. However, Annette and I did not feel comfortable with the health and safety rules of the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference and therefore did not attend the whole conference as we had done in the previous years. We only went for Annette`s 3 events and did not stay at the Harrah's Resort but at an airbnb in Atlantic City. Thus there is no "Seen Through Christian Schiller`s Camera Lens" overview posting of the event, as I prepared in previous years. 

See for example: The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

All of the pictures in this posting are mine, except for a few that I downloaded from facebook.

Pictures: Arriving in Atlantic City and Delivering the Wines

Postings on schiller-wine

This is the first in a series of postings related to the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. 

Annette Schiller`s 3 Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Sparkling Wines, Austria, Bordeaux 

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021.

The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

The American Wine Society

The American Wine Society was founded in 1967 as a non-profit, educational, consumer-oriented organization for those interested in learning more about all aspects of wine. On October 7, 1967, around 200 grape growers, home winemakers, and wine lovers gathered at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s vineyard on Keuka Lake near Hammondsport, NY for the AWS’ initial meeting.

In December of the same year, the thirteen charter members, led by Founder Dr. Konstantin Frank, met to determine the organization structure of AWS and elect officers. Now in its 54th year, the American Wine Society is the largest consumer based wine education organization in North America. Membership is open to anyone interested in wine and over 21 years of age.

In the early days, AWS members were located primarily in the eastern part of the country. As the society grew , we established chapters throughout the eastern U.S., then into the south and Midwest, and finally into western states. Today, the American Wine Society has over 5,000 members in 45 states and 120 chapters across the U.S.

Each November the Society hosts a three-day national conference with two full days of nearly 50 educational seminars to choose from. Winery owners, wine educators, and renowned wine makers are selected to present sessions during this national event. In addition, a program educating members to become AWS certified wine judges is conducted on the day preceding the seminars.  

Atlantic City

Take a typical Jersey Shore beach vacation – complete with a boardwalk and souvenir shops – throw in a little Las Vegas, and you have Atlantic City, New Jersey. Since the legalization of gambling in the city in the late 1970s, Atlantic City (or just AC) has attracted visitors who mostly want to try their luck at the tables and occasionally want to lounge on the beach. Now, luxury hotels, hopping nightclubs and upscale shops are spiffing up AC's street cred as a beach vacation. No, you won't find Vegas' class and panache in Atlantic City nor will you find the pristine sands of a Florida beach, but if you're looking for a destination that provides a fairly good mix of the two, AC might just be the place for you. 

Pictures: Atlantic City Board Walk

(Forbes, 2021):  This beachfront city has certainly had its ups and downs over the years. When Atlantic City was developed in the late 1800s, it was created to be a health retreat where urban dwellers could escape and breathe in the fresh sea air. Its legendary Boardwalk, built in 1870 to keep sand out of the fancy beachfront hotels, was the world’s first boardwalk. Ever played Monopoly? Atlantic City was the inspiration for the iconic board game’s street names—Park Place, Tennessee Avenue and so on. In the roaring 20s, AC was so popular that it was nicknamed “the world’s playground.” In the 1970s, gambling came to AC with the aim of propelling the place to Vegas-style heights—but that was never quite realized. The new millennium was crushing, with a series of high-profile bankruptcies that turned the city into a ghost town.

In recent years, things were starting to look up, buoyed by hotel openings and a renewed optimism for this seaside resort town. Enter a global pandemic. By all accounts, Covid could have killed this place and local leaders were even predicting that it would be "Armageddon. Instead, AC took the last year and a half to reinvent itself yet again. Suddenly, the place is thriving with buzzing hotels, a growing culinary scene and a prolific arts community.

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021  

Pictures: All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021.

The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

Picture: The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

 

Pictures: The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

Picture: Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021 

Presenter: Annette Schiller, Owner, ombiasy PR & Wine Tours

Pictures: Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021 

Back Home in Virginia

We went back home to Virginia on Saturday, following Annette's Bordeaux presentation.

Pictures: Back Home in Northern Virginia

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2019 in St. Pete Beach, Florida

The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, with Annette and Christian Schiller

Renaissance of the Terroir in Germany: Back to the Roots - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Syrah and Shiraz: Is there any Difference, do they Taste the Same? - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Dry Riesling from around the World - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Janie Brooks Heuck, President, International Riesling Foundation

Two American Icons: With Randall Grahm, Founder of Bonny Doon Vineyard, and Joel Peterson, Founder of Ravenswood Vineyards, at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2018 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in in Buffalo, New York State

The 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, with Annette and Christian Schiller

"Abbey Wines”: The Importance of the Monasteries for the Development of Viticulture - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Burgundy Pinot Noir and German Pinot Noir: Differences and Similarities - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA, led by Annette Schiller

A Journey through the Rhône Valley - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2017 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania

The 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

Showcase of Wines at the 2017 National Conference of the American Wine Society: Annette and Christian Schiller Present German/ VDP/ Loosen Bros. USA Wines

A Journey through the Vineyards of Alsace - A Tasting Seminar at the National Conference 2017 of the American Wine Society, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Burgundy: What makes it so Special? - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

German Wines in the 21st Century - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2016 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in California

The 2016 American Wine Society National Conference in California, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

The New Germany: Red, Sparkling and Dry - Tasting at the American Wine Society 2016 National Conference in Los Angeles, USA, led by Annette Schiller

The New Classification of German Wines: The VDP Classification - Annette Schiller Conducting a Seminar at the 2016 National Convention of the American Wine Society in Los Angeles, USA

The Insider’s View of Charles Krug Winery - Peter Mondavi Jr., Co-Proprietor, Charles Krug Winery

Château Climens, Premier Cru Barsac and Savory Dishes…who knew? - Bérénice Lurton, Owner of Château Climens and Tony Lawrence, Global Food & Wine Pairing Specialist

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Pictures: Weingut Schloss Johannisberg and Ernst Loosen, Weingut Dr. Loosen

The World's Best Vineyards 2021 were announced at Schloss Johannisberg in Germany's Rheingau region. Two German wine estates made it onto the global list: Schloss Johannisberg itself and Weingut Dr. Loosen in the Mosel region.

Enthused customers are the most loyal

Steffen Schindler, this year’s partner from Wines of Germany commented ‘We’d like to thank the organisers and the masterminds behind these awards for raising awareness of wine tourism worldwide and in Germany, of course.  Wine tourism has become a very important economic pillar for many of our wine estates, and we know that the most loyal customers are those that have come to our estates and our wine regions in person.’

• Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau region, Germany, (number 34)
• Weingut Dr. Loosen, Mosel region, Germany (number 46)

More information regarding the Top50 list: www.worldsbestvineyards.com

These are both outstandig producers and we have visited both of them on an ombiasy wine tour by Annette Schiller.

Weingut Dr. Loosen, Mosel 

Situated on Germany’s Mosel River among some of the world’s most treasured vineyards, the Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for more than 200 years.

When Ernst Loosen assumed ownership in 1988, he realized that, with ungrafted vines averaging 60 years old in some of Germany’s top-rated vineyards, he had the raw materials to create stunningly intense, world-class Rieslings.

To achieve this, Ernst immediately changed the estate’s vineyard practices to dramatically reduce crop size. He stopped all chemical fertilization, preferring only moderate use of organic fertilizers and soil amendments.

Schloss Johannisberg

Wine making in the Schloss Johannisberg vineyards started long before the castle was build, during the reign of Charlemagne. The hill became known as Johannisberg (John's mountain) in the 1100s, when a Romanesque basilica in honor of John the Baptist was built on the hill. The Chateau that we see today was built in the 1700s by the Prince-Abbot of Fulda. In 1720 he planted Riesling vines, making it the oldest Riesling vineyard in the world.

See also:
Tour and Tasting at Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, with Christian Witte, Domaine Director – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), Germany

Pictures: Domäne Schloss Johannisberg and the Managing Director Stefan Doktor. See: Robert Weil, Schloss Johannisberg, Schloss Vollrads, Kloster Eberbach: Visit of 4 Iconic Rheingau Riesling Producers (III. International Riesling Symposium), Germany

For many centuries the estate was owned by the Prince-Abbot of Fulda, but changed hands several times during the Napoleonic wars and subsequent secularization. In 1816, Austrian Emperor Francis II, gave the estate to his Foreign Minister, Prince von Metternich, as a thank you for his successful negotiations in the reorganization of Europe during the “Congress of Vienna”. The last resident of the Metternich family at Schloss Johannisberg, Tatjana Princess von Metternich was a patron of the arts in the Rheingau and beyond and revived the castle to its former glory after the destructions during World War II. After her death in 2006, the Oetker family (yes, that's the one that produces baking helpers and puddings) bought the estate.

Pictures: Cellar Tour at Schloss Johannisberg with Stefan Doktor

The vineyard Schloss Johannisberg is also a single vineyard designation (Einzellage) in its own right. Like the Steinberg, it is one of a handful historic German vineyards which do not have to display a village name on the label. Thus, the vineyard designation on the label is Schloß Johannisberger. There are currently about 35 hectares of vineyard.

The Oetker family also owns the renowned Weingut G.H. von Mumm, also in Johannisberg. Weingut G.H. von Mumm is jointly managed with Weingut Schloss Johannisberg by Christian Witte and his team.

Weingut Schloss Johannisberg has been making wine for over 900 years. The winery is most noted for its claim to have "discovered" the Spätlese wine, late harvest wine. (This, however, is contested by the Hungarians; they claim that the late harvest was discovered in the Tokaji region.)

Long before printed labels were common practice, Schloss Johannisberg had its own system of distinguishing among its bottlings through the use of colored seals. Introduced by Fürst von Metternich in 1820 and in use to this day, the quality of a wine can be identified according to color.

Gelblack (yellow seal): QbA
Rotlack (red seal): Kabinett
Grünlack (green seal): Spätlese
Silberlack (silver seal): Großes Gewächs
Rosalack (pink seal): Auslese
Rosa-Goldlack (pink-gold seal): Beerenauslese
Goldlack (gold seal): Trockenbeerenauslese
Blaulack (blue seal): Eiswein

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Tasting at Weingut Dr. Loosen in Bernkastel-Kues, Mosel, with Ernie Loosen - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

Tasting and Vineyard Walk with Oliver Haag, Weingut Fritz Haag– Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours

An Afternoon with Riesling Star Winemaker Helmut Doennhoff at Weingut Doennhoff in Oberhausen in the Nahe Valley, Germany  

Wine Dinner with Tour at Weingut Kruger-Rumpf in Münster-Sarmsheim, Nahe, with Georg Rumpf – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Kruger-Rumpf, Münster-Sarmsheim, Nahe, with Stefan and Georg Rumpf - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

 

Pictures:  Christian Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken, Germany back in the USA - Winemaker Dinner at the Schiller Residence in McLean, Northern Virginia

The USA lifted its 18-month covid travel ban on November 8th, 2021. We can expect to see again European winemakers in Washington DC. One of the first, if not the first, was star winemaker and chef Christian L. Stahl from Franken, Winemaker of the Year 2018 (FAS, Stuart Pigott). He was accompanied by Chef Mirko from his fine dining team. 

Dear wine friends,

We would like to invite you to an evening of dining and wining on Wednesday, November 10^th in McLean, VA.

Our friend, winemaker Christian Stahl from the Franken wine region in Germany, can’t wait to visit the US. A day after the US lifts the travel ban next week, he will hop on the plane to Washington DC and New York City.

We can’t wait to get back to organizing wine tastings and wine dinners.

In view of the current Covid-19 situation we decided to host a winemaker dinner with Christian Stahl at our home. To make sure that everyone feels comfortable and safe our guests are required to provide proof of being fully vaccinated.

Christian belongs to the generation of young winemakers in Germany who clearly want to renounce wine folklore, who clearly want to work with grape varieties true to their region, who clearly want to produce only upper premium quality wines. All his wines are bone-dry and excellent food wines. Christian Stahl is Winemaker of the Year 2018 (FAS, Stuart Pigott). 

Some of you may already have met Christian Stahl at a previous winemaker dinner (at BToo or Evo Bistro) or at the recent Zoom tasting of the German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter).

Chef Kenneth Hughes will prepare a four-course meal matching the taste profile of the wines. Chef Ken learned the art of cooking in California at the Culinary School where Wolfgang Puck was one of his mentors. Some of you will remember his excellent cuisine when he was Executive Chef at Open Kitchen in Falls Church. Today he works as private chef in the Northern Virginia area. We were very lucky to be able to hire him on short notice.

Cost of the wine dinner is $ 45 per person (cash or check)

Seats are limited very limited (max 16 guests). Reservations are first come first serve.

We are very much looking forward to seeing you at our home in McLean.

 

Cheers

Annette 

Wine Tours - Wine Events - Wine Education

Annette Schiller

USA: +1 703 459 7513

DE: +49 -177 337 0281 

 

Chef Ken

 

Chef Kenneth Hughes prepared a four-course meal matching the taste profile of the wines. Chef Ken learned the art of cooking in California at the Culinary School where Wolfgang Puck was one of his mentors. Some of you will remember his excellent cuisine when he was Executive Chef at Open Kitchen in Falls Church. Today he works as private chef in the Northern Virginia area. We were very lucky to be able to hire him on short notice.

 

 

Picture: Christian Schiller and Chef Ken. See: A German Riesling Dinner at Open Kitchen in Washington DC, USA

 

Christian Stahl in Washington DC

 

Christian spent 2 days in Washington DC, including tastings at Cleveland Park Wine and Spirits and the Eastern, before travelling to New York City and Chicago.

 

 

 

Pictures: Christian Stahl Pouring and Sightseeing in Washington DC

 

Chef Ken with Chef Christian and Chef Mirko

 

Christian is not only a winemaker, but he is also actively involved in a gourmet restaurant at his winery that is open during the weekend. "I am a winemaker from Monday to Thursday and I am a chef from Friday to Saturday". Chef Mirko, who came with him to the USA this time, is the other half of the Winzerhof Stahl fine dining team.

Chef Ken of course was in the lead in the kitchen but when Christian and Mirko arrived, they helped quite a bit.

Pictures: Chef Ken, Chef Christian and Chef Mirko

Reception

 

The guests arrived a 7pm and were let in after Annette had checked their CDC card. All had been double vaccinated and almost all had been triple vaccinated.

Pictures: Reception with Stahl Spark

 

The Dinner

 

It was a very lively dinner. The food was excellent and paired very well with the wines of Christian Stahl. Towards the end, Chef Ken joined us as did the importer of the wines of Christian Stahl, Christopher Barta (Christopher Douglas Selection).

 

 

 

 

 

Pictures: The Dinner

The Food and the Wines

 

Chef Kenneth Hughes prepared a four-course meal matching the taste profile of the wines.

First

 

Artichokes, Autumn Mushrooms, Leeks

Silvaner 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (US$21.99)

Best of Silvaner 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (US$35.99)

 

Second

From the Sea: Crispy Seared Sea Scallops, Safron Risotto, Roasted Red Pepper

Pinot Blanc 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (US$21.99)

Müller-Thurgau Hasennest, 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (US$23.99) 

 

Third

From the Farm: Oven Roasted Orgnaic Boneless Chicken Short Leg, Parsnip, Brussel Spouts, Ocal Onions, Greens

Scheurebe 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (21.99)

Best of Sauvignon-Blanc 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (US$35.99)

Fourth

Apple Strudel, Bourbon Vanilla Sauce

Sparkling, White 2020, Winzerhof Stahl (US$20.99)

Bye-bye

 

Thanks Christian, Mirko and Ken for an outstanding evening.

Pictures: Bye-bye

Christian L. Stahl in the US

Christian has been coming to the US since 2016. His first tasting in the US in January 2016 at Cleveland Park Fine Wines and Liquor Store. See: Welcome to the USA: Christian L. Stahl from Winzerhof Stahl in Franken, Germany

Pictures: Christian L. and Simone Stahl at Cleveland Park Fine Wines and Liquor Store in Washington DC, with Importer Chris Bartha, General Manager Anthony Quinn and Christian Schiller.

Later in the year, when Christian came for the second time, he was our guest of honor at our Riesling Party 2016, where he presented his wines. See: Annette and Christian Schiller’s Summer of Riesling 2016 in McLean, Virginia, with German Star Winemaker Christian L. Stahl, German Wine Journalist Joachim A.J. Kaiser and Virginia Star Winemaker Chris Pearmund

Pictures: Christian Stahl at Annette and Christian Schiller’s Summer of Riesling 2016 in McLean, Virginia

In January 2017 Annette organized a winemaker dinner with him at Evo Bistro in McLean, Virginia. See: Franken Wines, Virginia Oysters and French-Mediterranian Food: Winemaker Dinner with Christian L. Stahl from Winzerhof Stahl, Germany, and Chef Driss Zahidi at Evo Bistro in McLean, Virginia

Picture: Winemaker Dinner with Christian L. Stahl at Evo Bistro in McLean, VA

Before the dinner, Annette and Christian Schiller, had invited to a reception with Christian L. Stahl had their private home. We had Rappahanock oysters from Virginia and Stahl wine. They paired very well. See: Franken Wines, Virginia Oysters and French-Mediterranian Food: Winemaker Dinner with Christian L. Stahl from Winzerhof Stahl, Germany, and Chef Driss Zahidi at Evo Bistro in McLean, Virginia

Pictures: Oysters and Stahl Wines

Later in the year, we visited Christian L. Stahl at the Winzerhof Stahl in Franken and experienced first hand that Christian is not only a gifted winemaker but also a Highly talented chef. Those who came on the Germany-East Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2017 will definitely remember the out-of-this-world lunch Christian cooked for us at Winzerhof Stahl. See: Lunch with Christian L. Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken: Not only a Gifted Winemaker but also a Gifted Chef - Germany-East Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours

Pictures: Lunch at Winzerhof Stahl, with Chef Christian L. Stahl. See: Lunch with Christian L. Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken: Not only a Gifted Winemaker but also a Gifted Chef - Germany-East Tour 2017 by ombiasy

I had met Christian some time ago in Germany at the top Restaurant SchauMahl in Frankfurt/ Germany, were he came for a winemaker dinner.

Pictures: Christian Schiller and Annette Schiller with Christian Stahl in Frankfurt. See: The Bistronomics Cuisine of Chef Christoph Kubenz and the Wines of Winemaker Christian Stahl at Restaurant schauMahl in Frankfurt, Germany

 

 

Picture: Annette and Christian Schiller’s Summer of Riesling 2016 in McLean, Virginia, with German Star Winemaker Christian L. Stahl, German Wine Journalist Joachim A.J. Kaiser and Virginia Star Winemaker Chris Pearmund

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List 

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2019 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

Wine Harvest 2021 in Germany (Derek Vinnicombe)

Picture: Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken with Hanno Zilliken - Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours

Press Release 

Weingut Zilliken Joins Loosen Bros. USA Import Portfolio

(OREGON CITY, Oregon) – Loosen Bros. USA, the U.S. import company owned by Ernst Loosen of Germany's Dr. Loosen estate, is thrilled to announce that the highly acclaimed Saar Valley winery, Weingut Forstmeister Geltz Zilliken, has joined its portfolio.

In an agreement reached earlier this year, but interrupted by the double crises of the tariff on EU wines and the coronavirus pandemic, Loosen Bros. USA is now the exclusive importer of Zilliken in the U.S.

ABOUT WEINGUT ZILLIKEN

Weingut Zilliken is one of the leading wine estates of Germany's diminutive Saar region, a tributary of the Mosel. Renowned for the steely precision of their Rieslings grown in the very cool climate and slate soils of the area, the Zilliken estate built its reputation with intense, yet delicate and nearly weightless Rieslings that “float like a butterfly.”

The estate is currently managed by Dorothee Zilliken, who is the 11th generation of a family that has been producing wine in the town of Saarburg since 1742. Dorothee has worked with her esteemed father, Hans-Joachim "Hanno" Zilliken, since 2007. She took on full responsibility in 2016, with the ongoing guidance of Hanno, and the indispensable assistance of her mother, Ruth, and husband, Philipp.

Pictures: Cellar Tour at Weingut Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken with Hanno Zilliken - Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours

WINEMAKING APPROACH

The Zilliken family seeks to carefully preserve the potential that the wine carries within itself. Their greatest effort is in the vineyards, where meticulous attention to detail leads to optimal fruit for each style of wine. Their approach in the cellar is traditional and simple, with fermentation, clarification and maturation all happening naturally in old Fuder casks. “Our goal is to produce Rieslings with the highest level of finesse and lightness,” says Dorothee. 

Pictures: Tasting at Weingut Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken with Hanno Zilliken - Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours

LONG-TIME FRIENDS MAKE A GREAT SAAR ADDITION TO THE PORTFOLIO

As with all of the producers in the Loosen Bros. USA portfolio, the Zillikens are long-time friends of Erni Loosen and Loosen Bros. USA president Kirk Wille.

“I first met the Zilliken family while on a Riesling pilgrimage in 1996,” says Wille. “I was immediately struck by their warmth and humanity, their strong bond with the vineyards, and their pride in the estate's deep, mythic cellar. It had long been a goal of ours to add a prominent Saar estate to our portfolio, so when the opportunity arose with the Zillikens, we didn't hesitate, in spite of all the challenges we are currently facing.”

Pictures: Dorothee Zilliken

ANOTHER GAULT MILLAU WINERY OF THE YEAR

Weingut Zilliken was named Germany's Winery of the Year 2017 in the Gault Millau Weinguide Deutschland. This puts them in good company with the other German producers in the portfolio, all of whom have also received this acclaim: Fritz Haag (1994), Maximin Grünhaus (1995), Robert Weil (1997), Dr. Loosen (2001) and Wittmann (2014). Each of these estates is also a member of the prestigious VDP winegrower's association.

CONTACT: Kirk Wille at kirk.wille@drloosen.com or 503-984-3041.

Pictures: Hanno Zilliken

ABOUT LOOSEN BROS. USA

Loosen Bros. USA is a fine wine import company owned by Ernst Loosen (owner of Dr. Loosen) and headquartered in Oregon City, Oregon. The company is committed to representing family wine estates from around the world that are at the pinnacle of their respective regions, producing wines that genuinely reflect their geographical and cultural origins, as well as the personality of the human beings who make them. For more information, please visit www.loosenbrosusa.com.

Pictures: Hanno Zilliken at the 2015 Rieslingfeier in New York. See:  The 11 Winemakers: Rieslingfeier 2015 in New York City, USA

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List 

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2019 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

Wine Harvest 2021 in Germany (Derek Vinnicombe)

Tasting at Weingut Dr. Loosen in Bernkastel-Kues, Mosel, with Ernie Loosen - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

Hanno and Dorothee Zilliken are Winemaker of the Year (Gault Millau WeinGuide Deutschland 2017)

Dorothee Zilliken, Weingut Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken Presents her Noble Rieslings at Frankfurt/Wein in Frankfurt, Germany

The 11 Winemakers: Rieslingfeier 2015 in New York City, USA

German Wine Dinner with Hanno Zilliken, Weingut Forstmeister Geltz-Zilliken, at Rasika in Washington DC, USA

Pictures: All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle? - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City 

This is the second in a series of postings related to the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City.

Annette Schiller`s 3 Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Sparkling Wines, Austria, Bordeaux

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle? - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the  2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the  2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City  

 

The Event at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City 

Picture: The Sponsores

Pictures: All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021.

The Power Point Presentation

 

Pictures: All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021 - The Power Point Presentation

The American Wine Society

The American Wine Society was founded in 1967 as a non-profit, educational, consumer-oriented organization for those interested in learning more about all aspects of wine. On October 7, 1967, around 200 grape growers, home winemakers, and wine lovers gathered at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s vineyard on Keuka Lake near Hammondsport, NY for the AWS’ initial meeting.

In December of the same year, the thirteen charter members, led by Founder Dr. Konstantin Frank, met to determine the organization structure of AWS and elect officers. Now in its 54th year, the American Wine Society is the largest consumer based wine education organization in North America. Membership is open to anyone interested in wine and over 21 years of age.

In the early days, AWS members were located primarily in the eastern part of the country. As the society grew , we established chapters throughout the eastern U.S., then into the south and Midwest, and finally into western states. Today, the American Wine Society has over 5,000 members in 45 states and 120 chapters across the U.S.

Each November the Society hosts a three-day national conference with two full days of nearly 50 educational seminars to choose from. Winery owners, wine educators, and renowned wine makers are selected to present sessions during this national event. In addition, a program educating members to become AWS certified wine judges is conducted on the day preceding the seminars. 

The 2021 American Wine Society National Conference at Harrah's Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

More than 600 members from all over the USA came to this 3-day event, filled with tastings, seminars and presentations.

As in previous years, Thursday was the day of wine judging. There were full-day courses for those who want to become a certified AWS Wine Judge. This is a 3-year program. Also, the Amateur and Commercial Wine Competitions took place on Thursday.

Friday and Saturday was filled with about 50 wine seminars, led by winery owners, wine educators, and renowned winemakers. The breakfasts, lunches, dinners and after-dinner gatherings provided ample opportunities to network with other AWS members.

 

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey

Annette and I had had planned to attend the whole conference and spend several days at the Harrah`s Resort in Atlantic City. However, Annette and I did not feel comfortable with the health and safety rules of the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference and therefore did not attend the whole conference as we had done in the previous years. We only went for Annette`s 3 events and did not stay at the Harrah's Resort but at an airbnb in Atlantic City. Thus there is no "Seen Through Christian Schiller`s Camera Lens" overview posting of the event, as I prepared in previous years. 

See for example: The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

All of the pictures in this posting are mine, except for a few that I downloaded from facebook.

 

Pictures: Arriving in Atlantic City and Delivering the Wines

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2019 in St. Pete Beach, Florida

The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, with Annette and Christian Schiller

Renaissance of the Terroir in Germany: Back to the Roots - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Syrah and Shiraz: Is there any Difference, do they Taste the Same? - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Dry Riesling from around the World - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Janie Brooks Heuck, President, International Riesling Foundation

Two American Icons: With Randall Grahm, Founder of Bonny Doon Vineyard, and Joel Peterson, Founder of Ravenswood Vineyards, at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2018 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in in Buffalo, New York State

The 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, with Annette and Christian Schiller

"Abbey Wines”: The Importance of the Monasteries for the Development of Viticulture - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Burgundy Pinot Noir and German Pinot Noir: Differences and Similarities - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA, led by Annette Schiller

A Journey through the Rhône Valley - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2017 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania

The 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

Showcase of Wines at the 2017 National Conference of the American Wine Society: Annette and Christian Schiller Present German/ VDP/ Loosen Bros. USA Wines

A Journey through the Vineyards of Alsace - A Tasting Seminar at the National Conference 2017 of the American Wine Society, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Burgundy: What makes it so Special? - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

German Wines in the 21st Century - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2016 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in California

The 2016 American Wine Society National Conference in California, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

The New Germany: Red, Sparkling and Dry - Tasting at the American Wine Society 2016 National Conference in Los Angeles, USA, led by Annette Schiller

The New Classification of German Wines: The VDP Classification - Annette Schiller Conducting a Seminar at the 2016 National Convention of the American Wine Society in Los Angeles, USA

The Insider’s View of Charles Krug Winery - Peter Mondavi Jr., Co-Proprietor, Charles Krug Winery

Château Climens, Premier Cru Barsac and Savory Dishes…who knew? - Bérénice Lurton, Owner of Château Climens and Tony Lawrence, Global Food & Wine Pairing Specialist

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List

Pictures: Annette Schiller and Christian Schiller with Sebastian Fürst, Winemaker of the Year, Vinum Weinguide Deutschland 2022

Vinum Weinguide Deutschland 2022: Sebastian Fürst, Weingut Rudolf Fürst, Winemaker of the Year

Vinum: "...At this point, an estate must be put in the spotlight that has long been known as the model estate for (not only) Pinot Noir. Sebastian Fürst of Weingut Rudolf Fürst in the Franken region is the Winemaker of the Year (Vinum Weinguide Deutschland 2022). Sebastian is receiving the award 19 years after his father Paul got it. For the first time, the award goes twice to the same estate. Sebastian has successfully maintained the style of his father Paul, while giving the wine his own nuances, including when it comes to the Chardonnay."

Weingut Rudolf Fürst

Weingut Rudolf Fürst is in Franken. It has the reputation of being a specialist for red wines, Spätburgunder and Früburgunder, which account for 60% of the production; but brilliant dry white wines are also produced. Sebastian Fürst has taken over from his father Paul Fürst. 20 hectares.

Weingut Rudolf Fürst (Berry Bros. & Rudd)

In the westernmost corner of the Franconian wine region, framed by the low mountain ranges of Spessart and Odenwald, the Fürst family has been making wine since 1638.  In 1979 Paul and Monika Fürst built the new estate amidst the vineyards and in 2007 they were joined by their son Sebastian.

Facing due south and overlooking the picturesque towns of Miltenberg and Bürgstadt the slopes of the Centgrafenberg are home to most of the vines. Pinot Noir and Riesling thrive in the warm and iron rich soils formed by the weathering of red sandstone. The quality of the wines is founded on minimal intervention in the vineyards, reduced yields, gentle vinification and long barrel ageing  (12-20 months). Red wines are bottled unfiltered.

Pinot Noir has been cultivated on the hot red sandstone of Centgrafenberg, Hundsrück and Schlossberg for centuries. Frühburgunder (also known as Pinot Madeleine) is an old variety, indigenous to this region, which yields full bodied wines and has attracted more and more attention over the last years. Spätburgunder  is complemented by other classic Franconian wines (all dry) from Riesling, Weißburgunder, and Silvaner. White wines are pressed gently, fermented and aged in both barrels and stainless steel tanks for 6 – 12 months.

“Rudolf Fürst is an acknowledged Pinot magician in Germany, not just with Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) but also the earlier-ripening Frühburgunder.”  Jancis Robinson MW, The Financial Times,13th November 2011.

“18 ha estate in Bürgstadt where some of the best Franconian wines are produce, especially the burgundy style Spätburgunders (rightly regarded as the finest in Germany).” Hugh Johnson, Wineguide 2012

Weingut Rudolf Fürst and ombiasy WineTours: Germany-East

We have visited Weingut Fürst several times on ombiasy wine tours and we have had the chance to enjoy the Fürst wines and listen to Sebastian Fürst an various winemaker dinners. 

Weingut Fürst is part of the Germany-East tour.

Pictures: Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour and Tasting (from Barrel and from Bottle) at Weingut Rudolf Fürst, Franken, with Sebastian Fürst - Germany-East Tour 2018 by ombiasy WineTours: Wine, Art, Culture, History - Berlin, Saale-Unstrut, Sachsen, Württemberg, Franken 

Weingut Rudolf Fürst: Postings on schiller-wine

Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour and Tasting (from Barrel and from Bottle) at Weingut Rudolf Fürst, Franken, with Sebastian Fürst - Germany-East Tour 2018 by ombiasy WineTours: Wine, Art, Culture, History - Berlin, Saale-Unstrut, Sachsen, Württemberg, Franken
Tasting and Tour with the Pinot Noir Legend Paul Fürst, Weingut Rudolf Fürst in Bürgstadt, Franken – Germany-East Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)
Winemaker Dinner with Sebastian Fürst, Weingut Fürst, Franken, at Schaumahl, Offenbach/ Frankfurt, 16 Points Gault Millau, Germany
Winemaker Dinner with Chef/ King of Spices Ingo Holland and Sebastian Fürst (Weingut Rudolf Fürst, Franken), Julian Huber (Weingut Bernhard Huber, Baden) and Jérôme Legras (Champagne Legras & Haas) 

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List 

Christian Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken, Germany back in the USA - Winemaker Dinner at the Schiller Residence in McLean, Northern Virginia

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

Annette Schiller`s 3 Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Sparkling Wines, Austria, Bordeaux 

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2019 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

Wine Harvest 2021 in Germany (Derek Vinnicombe)

 

 

Pictures: The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City 

The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City 

Annette Schiller, President of ombiasy WineTours and member of the American Wine Society, led 3 wine tastings - "All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle", "The Wines of Austria" and "Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux" - at the 2021 National Conference of the American Wine Society.

 

This posting covers "The Wines of Austria". 

 

Postings on schiller-wine

This is the third in a series of postings related to the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City.

Annette Schiller`s 3 Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Sparkling Wines, Austria, Bordeaux

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle? - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the  2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the  2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City  

 

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey with Executive Director David Falcheck

The Wines of Austria: The Event at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City   

 

Presenter: Annette Schiller, Owner of Ombiasy PR & Wine Tours

 

Sponsors: Gerhard Wohlmuth, Weingut Wohlmuth, Maximilian Habsburg-Lothringen, Weingut Habsburg, Klaus Wittauer, kwselection imports, Vienna, Virginia and ombiasy WineTours

 

Picture: The Sponsors

 

Abstract: Small but beautiful - that is Austrian viticulture in an international comparison. Austria is,

with France, Italy, Spain, and Germany, considered one of the best wine-growing countries in Europe. Austrian wine does one thing better than a lot of other wines: expresses history, site, climate and vintage. In this exciting tasting, you’ll have the chance to experience some of Austria’s most distinctive wine regions as you sample six delicious wines made from grape varieties deeply rooted in Austria’s viticultural history.

 

Pictures: The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City  

The Power Point Presentation

The American Wine Society

The American Wine Society was founded in 1967 as a non-profit, educational, consumer-oriented organization for those interested in learning more about all aspects of wine. On October 7, 1967, around 200 grape growers, home winemakers, and wine lovers gathered at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s vineyard on Keuka Lake near Hammondsport, NY for the AWS’ initial meeting.

In December of the same year, the thirteen charter members, led by Founder Dr. Konstantin Frank, met to determine the organization structure of AWS and elect officers. Now in its 54th year, the American Wine Society is the largest consumer based wine education organization in North America. Membership is open to anyone interested in wine and over 21 years of age.

In the early days, AWS members were located primarily in the eastern part of the country. As the society grew , we established chapters throughout the eastern U.S., then into the south and Midwest, and finally into western states. Today, the American Wine Society has over 5,000 members in 45 states and 120 chapters across the U.S.

Each November the Society hosts a three-day national conference with two full days of nearly 50 educational seminars to choose from. Winery owners, wine educators, and renowned wine makers are selected to present sessions during this national event. In addition, a program educating members to become AWS certified wine judges is conducted on the day preceding the seminars. 

The 2021 American Wine Society National Conference at Harrah's Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

More than 600 members from all over the USA came to this 3-day event, filled with tastings, seminars and presentations.

As in previous years, Thursday was the day of wine judging. There were full-day courses for those who want to become a certified AWS Wine Judge. This is a 3-year program. Also, the Amateur and Commercial Wine Competitions took place on Thursday.

Friday and Saturday was filled with about 50 wine seminars, led by winery owners, wine educators, and renowned winemakers. The breakfasts, lunches, dinners and after-dinner gatherings provided ample opportunities to network with other AWS members.

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey

Annette and I had had planned to attend the whole conference and spend several days at the Harrah`s Resort in Atlantic City. However, Annette and I did not feel comfortable with the health and safety rules of the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference and therefore did not attend the whole conference as we had done in the previous years. We only went for Annette`s 3 events and did not stay at the Harrah's Resort but at an airbnb in Atlantic City. Thus there is no "Seen Through Christian Schiller`s Camera Lens" overview posting of the event, as I prepared in previous years. 

See for example: The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

All of the pictures in this posting are mine, except for a few that I downloaded from facebook.

 

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2019 in St. Pete Beach, Florida

The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, with Annette and Christian Schiller

Renaissance of the Terroir in Germany: Back to the Roots - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Syrah and Shiraz: Is there any Difference, do they Taste the Same? - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Dry Riesling from around the World - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Janie Brooks Heuck, President, International Riesling Foundation

Two American Icons: With Randall Grahm, Founder of Bonny Doon Vineyard, and Joel Peterson, Founder of Ravenswood Vineyards, at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2018 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in in Buffalo, New York State

The 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, with Annette and Christian Schiller

"Abbey Wines”: The Importance of the Monasteries for the Development of Viticulture - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Burgundy Pinot Noir and German Pinot Noir: Differences and Similarities - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA, led by Annette Schiller

A Journey through the Rhône Valley - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2017 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania

The 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

Showcase of Wines at the 2017 National Conference of the American Wine Society: Annette and Christian Schiller Present German/ VDP/ Loosen Bros. USA Wines

A Journey through the Vineyards of Alsace - A Tasting Seminar at the National Conference 2017 of the American Wine Society, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Burgundy: What makes it so Special? - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

German Wines in the 21st Century - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2016 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in California

The 2016 American Wine Society National Conference in California, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

The New Germany: Red, Sparkling and Dry - Tasting at the American Wine Society 2016 National Conference in Los Angeles, USA, led by Annette Schiller

The New Classification of German Wines: The VDP Classification - Annette Schiller Conducting a Seminar at the 2016 National Convention of the American Wine Society in Los Angeles, USA

The Insider’s View of Charles Krug Winery - Peter Mondavi Jr., Co-Proprietor, Charles Krug Winery

Château Climens, Premier Cru Barsac and Savory Dishes…who knew? - Bérénice Lurton, Owner of Château Climens and Tony Lawrence, Global Food & Wine Pairing Specialist

schiller-wine: Related Postings

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

Picture: Tasting at Weingut Jos. Jos. Prüm in Bernkastel-Wehlen, Mosel, with Amei Prüm - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling 

Picture: Tour and Tasting at Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, with Christian Witte, Domaine Director– Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), Germany(2014)

Picture: Tasting and Discussing with Steffen Christmann, Weingut A. Christmann, Pfalz. See: Tour and Tasting at Weingut A. Christmann in Gimmeldingen, Pfalz, with Steffen Christmann – Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), Germany

James Suckling, now working out of China (Hong Kong) recently released his list of top 100 wines of 2021. From a German perspective, this list is remarkable, at least for 2 reasons.

While Germany accounts for just a couple of percentage points in terms of the world wine production, 12 of the listed 100 wines are from Germany.

Second, in my view the 12 selected wines represent very well what is going on in Germany now in terms of wine production, including overwhelmingly ultra-premium dry white and red wines. This is due to the fact that the reviewer - Stuart Pigott - lives in Germany and has a deep understanding of what is going on in the German wine world, including the latest developments.

In my view, James Suckling`s Top 100 Wines of 2021 reflects the best appreciation of German wine from a world perspective that I have seen for a while. Bravo Stuart Pigott!

12 Wines from Germany on James Suckling`s List of Top 100 Wines of 2021 

James Suckling: It’s been a great year for tasting wine at JamesSuckling.com. We rated almost 25,000 wines over the last 12 months, our all-time record, and we found so many exciting wines, from 2018 Bordeaux and Napa reds to 2020 German and Austrian whites, not to mention all the other superb wines from Argentina, Australia, California, Italy and New Zealand. Plus, we found a few gems from Chile, Hungary, Portugal and South Africa.

Now, the fruits of all that tasting and spitting are laid out in a neat Top 100 Wines of 2021 list! If you haven't already, check it out on the site. It is the culmination of a lot of hard work, not just from us, but from the hundreds of wineries that produce these immense wines. 

 

Congratulationsto them all. 

 

Picture: James Suckling - Where our Top 100 Wines of 2021 Come From 

James Suckling: Our global Top 100 this year was a cosmopolitan mix, showing how great wines can now be found in so many places. The list was dominated by France, which had 22 wines in the list, mostly 2018 Bordeaux. The United States was second with 21 wines listed, mostly 2018 Napa reds. Italy followed with 15 and Germany with 12. Australia accounted for seven, and Argentina, Spain and Chile each had five. New Zealand had three wines on the list, Austria two, and Hungary, Portugal and South Africa each had one.

 

The 12 German Wines on James Suckling`s List of Top 100 Wines of 2021  

3 Dönnhoff Riesling Nahe Hermannshöhle GG 2020

Stuart Pigott: The #bigmoment has come and the Top 100 for Planet #wine has just been posted on the James Suckling website, the culmination of a year's work by the entire team. The list is full of surprises, but no surprise that Cornelius DönnhoffAnne DönnhoffWeingut Dönnhoff#nahe#riesling#germany produced the highest placed wine that I contributed at #3. Congratulations to every producer who made the Top 100! #winelover#winetasting#winecritic  

 

James Suckling: At No. 3 in our list of Top 100 Wines of 2021, the Dönnhoff Riesling Nahe Hermannshöhle GG 2020 is a top single-vineyard riesling from undoubtedly one of the greatest producers of wine in Germany. The steep hillside vineyards of the Dönnhoff family produce some of the most compelling dry white wines in the world. And the Dönnhoffs make some of the best wines of our tastings each year. Last year, the Dönnhoff Riesling Nahe Dellchen 2019 was our No. 7 wine in the Top 100. The Hermannshöhle GG 2020 is a ravishing white with its wonderful ripe fruit character of peaches and pears but a fascinating saline, minerally undertone.

Score: 100
Note: The greatest wines are clear right from the very beginning, because not only is there a super abundance of perfect ripeness, but everything fits so beautifully that you’re instantly captivated. That’s exactly the way this dry riesling masterpiece is. The most ravishing, peachy fruit and the most perfect balance. Then comes the totally compelling, salty finish that just doesn’t want to stop. From organically grown grapes with Fair'n Green certification. Drink or hold.

 

 

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

12 Joh. Jos. Prum Riesling Mosel Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese Gold Cap 2019

 

Pictures: Tasting at Weingut Jos. Jos. Prüm in Bernkastel-Wehlen, Mosel, with Amei Prüm - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

14 Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Rheingau Grünlack Spätlese 2020

 

Picture: Tour and Tasting at Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, with Christian Witte, Domaine Director– Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015), Germany

Pictures: Cellar Tour at Schloss Johannisberg with General Manager Stefan Doktor. See: Robert Weil, Schloss Johannisberg, Schloss Vollrads, Kloster Eberbach: Visit of 4 Iconic Rheingau Riesling Producers (III. International Riesling Symposium), Germany

16 Thörle Spätburgunder Rheinhessen Hölle 2019

Picture: Johannes Thoerle, Christian G.E. Schiller, Christoph Thoerle and Annette Schiller. See: Visit: Winzerhof Thörle in Saulheim, Rheinhessen– Germany-North Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014)

17 Emrich-Schönleber Riesling Nahe Halenberg GG 2020

 

Picture: Christian Schiller and Werner Schönleber, Weingut Emrich-Schönleber at the 2013 Riesling Gala at Kloster Eberbach, Germany

 

Pictures: At Weingut Emrich-Schönleber. See: Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential German Riesling and the Northernmost Pinot Noir

23 Künstler Riesling Rheingau Hölle GG 2020

“The deep, peach and apricot nose leads you into this enormously concentrated yet graceful dry riesling that’s got the stature to stand next to almost any Grand Cru white Burgundy. Enormously long, beautifully balanced finish that pulls your hand magnetically back to the glass. Drink or hold.” (Stuart Pigott) 

 

 

Pictures: Vineyard Walk, Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting at Weingut Künstler– Germany-North Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014)

 

Picture: Annette Schiller and Gunter Künstler. See: VDP.Rheingau Invited to a Pre-release Presentation of the 2017 Grosses Gewächs (GG) Wines 

33 Leitz Riesling Rheingau Berg Schlossberg GG 2019

 

Pictures: Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Leitz in Rüdesheim, with Johannes Leitz – Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours

46 Dr. Bürklin-Wolf Riesling Pfalz Pechstein GC 2020

 

Pictures: Hauskonzert - Sunday Morning Concert - at Weingut Dr. Bürklin-Wolf with Annette Schiller and Bettina Bürklin-von Guradze and a 150 years old Steinway Concert Piano. See: Impromptu Tasting at Weinbar & Vinothek Weingut Dr. Bürklin-Wolf in Deidsheim, with Managing Director Steffen Brahner - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

56 Bernhard Huber Spätburgunder Baden Wildenstein GG 2019

 

Pictures: Tasting at Weingut Bernhard Huber in Baden, with Yquem Viehauser and Julian Huber – Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

60 Christmann Riesling Pfalz Idig GG 2020

 

Pictures: At Weigut A. Christmann - Harvest Time. See: Winery Tour and Wine Tasting at Weingut A. Christmann, with Steffen Christmann– Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2014)

79 Schäfer-Fröhlich Riesling Nahe Felseneck GG 2020

 

Picture: Christian Schiller and Tim Fröhlich in Wiesbaden

 

Pictures: At Weingut Schäfer-Fröhlich in Bockenau - Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential German Riesling and the Northernmost Pinot Noir

93 Robert Weil Riesling Rheingau Kiedrich Gräfenberg GG 2020

Pictures: Christian and Annette Schiller with Wilhelm Weil at Weingut Robert Weil in Kiedrich

 

Pictures: Kiedrich: Visit of the Basilica of Saint Valentine and of Weingut Robert Weil - Germany-North Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014)

Pictures: Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Robert Weil in Kiedrich, Rheingau, with Jan Christensen - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List 

Christian Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken, Germany back in the USA - Winemaker Dinner at the Schiller Residence in McLean, Northern Virginia

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

Annette Schiller`s 3 Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Sparkling Wines, Austria, Bordeaux 

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2019 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

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

Tasting at Weingut Jos. Jos. Prüm in Bernkastel-Wehlen, Mosel, with Amei Prüm - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling  

Tour and Tasting at Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, with Christian Witte, Domaine Director– Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Robert Weil in Kiedrich, Rheingau, with Jan Christensen - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling  

Robert Weil, Schloss Johannisberg, Schloss Vollrads, Kloster Eberbach: Visit of 4 Iconic Rheingau Riesling Producers (III. International Riesling Symposium), Germany  

Visit: Winzerhof Thörle in Saulheim, Rheinhessen– Germany-North Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014) 

Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential German Riesling and the Northernmost Pinot Noir 

Vineyard Walk, Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting at Weingut Künstler– Germany-North Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014) 

VDP.Rheingau Invited to a Pre-release Presentation of the 2017 Grosses Gewächs (GG) Wines

Vineyard Tour, Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Leitz in Rüdesheim, with Johannes Leitz – Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours 

Impromptu Tasting at Weinbar & Vinothek Weingut Dr. Bürklin-Wolf in Deidsheim, with Managing Director Steffen Brahner - Germany-South and Alsace 2018 Tour by ombiasy WineTours: Baden, Alsace, Pfalz and Rheinhessen

Tasting at Weingut Bernhard Huber in Baden, with Yquem Viehauser and Julian Huber – Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

At Weigut A. Christmann - Harvest Time. See: Winery Tour and Wine Tasting at Weingut A. Christmann, with Steffen Christmann– Germany-South Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2014) 

At Weingut Schäfer-Fröhlich in Bockenau - Germany-North Tour 2016 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential German Riesling and the Northernmost Pinot Noir 

Kiedrich: Visit of the Basilica of Saint Valentine and of Weingut Robert Weil - Germany-North Wine Tour by ombiasy (2014) 

Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Robert Weil in Kiedrich, Rheingau, with Jan Christensen - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling

The annual consular conference at the German Embassy Washington DC took place from December 1-3, 2021. 

Ambassador Emily Haber: "Germany is represented by devoted professionals throughout the US, serving both Americans and Germans. It's been a pleasure to host the eight German Consuls General, and some of the 38 Honorary Consuls."

 

As part of this conference, Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, was asked to do a 1 1/2 seminar about "The Wines of Germany", which included tasting 3 wines. Annette`s power point presentation, which was also distributed to the participants, is below as are pictures from the seminar.

 

Annette Schiller and I were also invited to a reception for the participants of the consular conference, hosted by the Deputy Chief of Mission of the German Embassy in Washington DC, Ricklef Beutin, and his wife Vera Beutin, Director of the German Information Center. 

 

Seminar: The Wines of Germany

 

Presenter: Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours 

Consular Conference 

German Embassy in Washington DC 

December 2, 2021

 

 

Pictures: The Wines of Germany: Presentation by Annette Schiller at the German Embassy in Washington DC/ Consular Conference December 2021

 

Annette and Christian Schiller at the Reception Hosted by Ricklef and Vera Beutin

 

Annette Schiller and I were also invited to a reception for the participants of the consular conference, hosted by the Deputy Chief of Mission of the German Embassy in Washington DC, Ricklef Beutin, and his wife Vera Beutin, Director of the German Information Center. 

 

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller at the Reception for the Participants, hosted by the Deputy Chief of Mission of the German Embassy in Washington DC, Ricklef Beutin, and his wife Vera Beutin, Director of the German Information Center

The Wines of Germany: Presentation by Annette Schiller at the German Embassy in Washington DC 

Pictures: The Wines of Germany: Presentation by Annette Schiller at the German Embassy in Washington DC/ Consular Conference December 2021

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List 

Christian Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken, Germany back in the USA - Winemaker Dinner at the Schiller Residence in McLean, Northern Virginia

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2019 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

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

Tasting at Weingut Jos. Jos. Prüm in Bernkastel-Wehlen, Mosel, with Amei Prüm - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling  

 

Pictures: Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City 

Annette Schiller, President of ombiasy WineTours and member of the American Wine Society, led 3 wine tastings - "All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle", "The Wines of Austria" and "Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux" - at the 2021 National Conference of the American Wine Society.

 

This posting covers "Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux". 

 

Postings on schiller-wine

This is the last in a series of 4 postings related to the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City.

Annette Schiller`s 3 Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey: Sparkling Wines, Austria, Bordeaux

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle? - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

The Wines of Austria - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the  2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City  

 

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey with Executive Director David Falcheck

Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux: The Event at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City   

 

Pictures: Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the Petits Châteaux - Presentation by Annette Schiller 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

Powerpoint Presentation

 

Pictures: Good Value Bordeaux Wines: Discover the “Petits Châteaux” - Presentation by Annette Schiller at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City  

The American Wine Society

The American Wine Society was founded in 1967 as a non-profit, educational, consumer-oriented organization for those interested in learning more about all aspects of wine. On October 7, 1967, around 200 grape growers, home winemakers, and wine lovers gathered at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s vineyard on Keuka Lake near Hammondsport, NY for the AWS’ initial meeting.

In December of the same year, the thirteen charter members, led by Founder Dr. Konstantin Frank, met to determine the organization structure of AWS and elect officers. Now in its 54th year, the American Wine Society is the largest consumer based wine education organization in North America. Membership is open to anyone interested in wine and over 21 years of age.

In the early days, AWS members were located primarily in the eastern part of the country. As the society grew , we established chapters throughout the eastern U.S., then into the south and Midwest, and finally into western states. Today, the American Wine Society has over 5,000 members in 45 states and 120 chapters across the U.S.

Each November the Society hosts a three-day national conference with two full days of nearly 50 educational seminars to choose from. Winery owners, wine educators, and renowned wine makers are selected to present sessions during this national event. In addition, a program educating members to become AWS certified wine judges is conducted on the day preceding the seminars. 

The 2021 American Wine Society National Conference at Harrah's Resort Atlantic City Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City on November 3 to 6, 2021

More than 600 members from all over the USA came to this 3-day event, filled with tastings, seminars and presentations.

As in previous years, Thursday was the day of wine judging. There were full-day courses for those who want to become a certified AWS Wine Judge. This is a 3-year program. Also, the Amateur and Commercial Wine Competitions took place on Thursday.

Friday and Saturday was filled with about 50 wine seminars, led by winery owners, wine educators, and renowned winemakers. The breakfasts, lunches, dinners and after-dinner gatherings provided ample opportunities to network with other AWS members.

Pictures: Annette and Christian Schiller at the American Wine Society National Conference 2021 in Atlantic City, New Jersey

Annette and I had had planned to attend the whole conference and spend several days at the Harrah`s Resort in Atlantic City. However, Annette and I did not feel comfortable with the health and safety rules of the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference and therefore did not attend the whole conference as we had done in the previous years. We only went for Annette`s 3 events and did not stay at the Harrah's Resort but at an airbnb in Atlantic City. Thus there is no "Seen Through Christian Schiller`s Camera Lens" overview posting of the event, as I prepared in previous years. 

See for example: The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

All of the pictures in this posting are mine, except for a few that I downloaded from facebook.

 

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the American Wine Society National Conference 2019 in St. Pete Beach, Florida

The 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, with Annette and Christian Schiller

Renaissance of the Terroir in Germany: Back to the Roots - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Syrah and Shiraz: Is there any Difference, do they Taste the Same? - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Annette Schiller

Dry Riesling from around the World - Seminar at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA, led by Janie Brooks Heuck, President, International Riesling Foundation

Two American Icons: With Randall Grahm, Founder of Bonny Doon Vineyard, and Joel Peterson, Founder of Ravenswood Vineyards, at the 2019 American Wine Society National Conference in St. Pete Beach, Florida, USA

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2018 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in in Buffalo, New York State

The 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

VDP at AWS: Tasting Premium German Wines at the Showcase of Wines of the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, with Annette and Christian Schiller

"Abbey Wines”: The Importance of the Monasteries for the Development of Viticulture - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Burgundy Pinot Noir and German Pinot Noir: Differences and Similarities - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State, USA, led by Annette Schiller

A Journey through the Rhône Valley - Seminar at the 2018 American Wine Society National Conference in Buffalo, New York State,USA, led by Annette Schiller

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2017 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania

The 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

Showcase of Wines at the 2017 National Conference of the American Wine Society: Annette and Christian Schiller Present German/ VDP/ Loosen Bros. USA Wines

A Journey through the Vineyards of Alsace - A Tasting Seminar at the National Conference 2017 of the American Wine Society, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Burgundy: What makes it so Special? - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

German Wines in the 21st Century - A Tasting Seminar at the 2017 American Wine Society National Conference in in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, led by Annette Schiller (ombiasyPR & WineTours)

Annette Schiller's Presentations at the 2016 American Wine Society Annual Meetings in California

The 2016 American Wine Society National Conference in California, USA: Seen Through Christian Schiller's Camera Lens

The New Germany: Red, Sparkling and Dry - Tasting at the American Wine Society 2016 National Conference in Los Angeles, USA, led by Annette Schiller

The New Classification of German Wines: The VDP Classification - Annette Schiller Conducting a Seminar at the 2016 National Convention of the American Wine Society in Los Angeles, USA

The Insider’s View of Charles Krug Winery - Peter Mondavi Jr., Co-Proprietor, Charles Krug Winery

Château Climens, Premier Cru Barsac and Savory Dishes…who knew? - Bérénice Lurton, Owner of Château Climens and Tony Lawrence, Global Food & Wine Pairing Specialist

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Picture: Tasting at Weingut H.J. Kreuzberg in Dernau, Ahr, with Ludwig Kreuzberg and Frank Josten – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2016

The flood disaster in mid-July in the Ahr region hit the local winegrowers hard. A few weeks before the upcoming harvest, most of the 50 or so wine producers were left with nothing. Now the harvest has been successfully brought in from the 562 hectares that make up the fourth smallest wine-growing region in western Germany. Nevertheless, it will take years before the situation returns to normal and the infrastructure in the valley is restored. The narrow Ahr river valley is responsible for the region's favored mesoclimate.

 

Total of 110 million euros damage

Dr Knut Schubert of the Rhineland-Nassau Farmers' and Winegrowers' Association reported to AGRA-EUROPE on November 11th that the total damage that has affected the wine-growing businesses is estimated at around 110 million euros. The damage calculated for each winery ranges from 50,000 to five million euros, with most businesses suffering damage of well over 500,000 euros.

The winegrowers affected by the flood are particularly concerned about the worsening scarcity of land for cultivation in the area. Ten percent of the vineyards were destroyed or badly damaged, amounting to a total loss of around 40 hectares. The partial damage in areas mainly on steep slopes and foothills, which will not be able to produce any yield in the next few years, is about 17 hectares.

"The issue will take a longer period of time until solutions are found," is the assessment given by the district association manager. The background to this is the reclassification of flood plains, which will eliminate several hectares of vineyards in the lowlands. In the future, winegrowing will only be possible to a limited extent and under certain conditions in the adjoining locations. Moreover, possible new designations for replacement areas would be in competition with sites for housing construction and for retention areas as potential flood plains.

 

Pictures: Tasting with Alexander Stodden, Weingut Jean Stodden, Ahr. See: Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Jean Stodden, Ahr, with Alexander Stodden - Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours

Structural change brought forward

Furthermore, land consolidation procedures are necessary in the floodplain in order to be able to operate sensibly in the future. In some districts, the region is particularly characterised by small plots. Of the 50 or so winegrowers who produce their own grapes and the 15 businesses that primarily supply grapes, two will probably go out of business. Some of the grape growers supplying the cooperatives, who had been severely damaged by the flood, are likely to bring forward the closure of their businesses by a few years. This would speed up the structural change.

 

Pictures: Wine Tasting at Weingut J.J. Adeneuer in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Ahr, with Marc Adeneuer - Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

Very good quality vintage

Despite all the difficulties, this year's grape harvest in the Ahr valley was successfully completed. The wine producers received broad support and assistance from all over Germany. The Ahrwein e.V. regional association supported the winegrowing businesses by coordinating the volunteer (harvest) helpers and fundraising as well as providing organisational support for the newly founded association "AHR - A wine region needs Help for Rebuilding e.V." and the #flutwein project. A central building block to enable the grape harvest was also the emergency aid paid out to the winegrowers from the donations of the foundations and funds of the farmers' associations, which were directly invested and used by the winegrowers.filtration are also important elements of our philosophy.

 

Pictures: Tasting at Weingut H.J. Kreuzberg in Dernau, Ahr, with Ludwig Kreuzberg and Frank Josten – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2016

Varying harvest quantities

The grape harvest itself turned out to be very heterogeneous, depending on the vineyard location. Some winemakers reported significant losses while others, including the cooperatives, were satisfied with the results. According to Schubert, the poor weather conditions this year, the flood disaster and the plant protection measures that were not fully implemented have had a major impact on the harvest volumes.

Overall, he estimates that around 35,000 hectolitres were harvested in the Ahr region. The Ahr vintners are very satisfied with the quality of the grapes harvested. The late summer temperatures had enhanced the vintage, and the winemakers had no problems with the acidity this year. They expect strong, fruit-driven wines. In addition, there are enough grapes to produce one of the region’s specialties, ‘Blanc de Noir’ - the creation of a light wine from red grapes.

 

schiller-wine: Related Postings

Vineyard Walk and Tasting at Weingut Meyer-Näkel in Dernau, Ahr, with Dörte Näkel– Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)

Tasting with Alexander Stodden, Weingut Jean Stodden, Ahr. See: Cellar Tour and Tasting at Weingut Jean Stodden, Ahr, with Alexander Stodden - Germany-North Tour 2017 by ombiasy WineTours 

Wine Tasting at Weingut J.J. Adeneuer in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, Ahr, with Marc Adeneuer - Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours (2015)   

Tasting at Weingut H.J. Kreuzberg in Dernau, Ahr, with Ludwig Kreuzberg and Frank Josten – Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2016 

Visit and Tasting at Winzergenossenschaft Mayschoss in Mayschoss, Ahr– Germany-North Tour by ombiasy WineTours 2016

Picture: Board of the "Weinfeder", the Association of German Wine Journalists

The "Weinfeder e.V." is the association of German wine journalists: "Ein Zusammenschluss von Journalisten, Redakteuren, Autoren, Fotografen, Moderatoren, Lektoren, Textern, Grafikern, Dozenten, Bloggern sowie Personen aller Berufszweige in Sachen Wein, die in den Bereichen Print und/oder Online publizistisch tätig sind".

It had its Annual Membership Meeting a few weeks ago, at which a new board was elected.

I am happy to report that I was re-elected to the board, as the "Kassenprüfer"/ cash auditor.

The Weinfeder e.V. is a member of the FIJEV (Fédération Internationale des Journalistes et Ecrivains des Vin et Spiritueux/ International Federation of Wine and Spirits Journalists and Writers).

Weinfeder e.V.: "Wir lieben und schreiben Weingeschichten – zu lesen im Weinfeder Journal. Wir verkosten Weine und bieten faire Weinkritik. Wir besuchen führende Weinmessen ebenso wie regionale Weinevents. Wir rezensieren Weinliteratur und spiegeln Weinkultur. Wir begleiten Weinernten, Weinkellerarbeit und informieren über neueste önologische Trends. Wir reisen in bekannte und unbekannte Weinregionen, entdecken Winzertalente, portraitieren Weinpersönlichkeiten.“

schiller-wine: Related Postings 

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List

Christmas Party 2018 of the Weinfeder - the Association of German-speaking Wine Journalists - in the Remstal in Württemberg, with the Wine Estates Jürgen Ellwanger, Bernhard Ellwanger, Doreas and Karl Haidle, Germany 

Weinfeder Award Ceremony at Weingut Spreitzer, September 2020: Wine Personality of the Year/ Georg Prinz zur Lippe, Weingut Schloss Proschwitz and German Wine Critics' Prize/ EINHEIT, Michael Apitz, Weingut Josef Spreitzer (Rheingau) and Weingut Pawis (Saale Unstrut), Germany

The Wines of Germany: Presentation by Annette Schiller at the German Embassy in Washington DC/ Consular Conference December 2021

Picture: Hilke Nagel and Theresa Olkus (Foto: VDP/Peter Bender)

The Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP) is the association of about 200 German elite winemakers. Hilke Nagel, who has been heading the association for many years, will step down at the end of 2021 and hand over to Theresa Olkus, the current Deputy Managing Director. Steffen Christman of Weingut Christman in the Pfalz will remain President of the VDP.

Theresa Olkus has a Masters of Art of the University of Hohenheim (2019) in "Kommunikatswissenschaft und Medienforschung"/ Communication Studies and Media Research.

The VDP

The VDP is the world’s oldest association of wine estates in the world. In fact, it is the only one of its kind worldwide. No other country has a national organization of the top wine makers of the entire country.

In 1910, four regional wine-growers’ associations joined forces to form the Verband Deutscher Naturweinversteigerer (i.e. estates that sold their “natural” [unchaptalized] wines at auction). These organizations – from the Rheingau and Rheinhessen, founded in 1897 and 1900, respectively, and their counterparts in the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer and Pfalz regions, bth founded in 1908 – were the forerunners of today’s VDP. At this time, fine German wines enjoyed a heyday. They were among the most expensive wines, on the tables of imperial houses as well as leading hotels and restaurants.

Throughout the past century, the quality-driven goals and strict standards of the VDP have played no small part in shaping the viticultural and winemaking practices in Germany. With their stringent statutes and their establishment of a German vineyard classification, the 200 members of the VDP have served as role models and justifiably can be viewed as the vanguard of the nation’s producers of top-quality wines.

VDP leitet Generationswechsel ein - Hilke Nagel übergibt ab 1.1.2022 an Nachfolgerin Theresa Olkus

Seit seiner Gründung im Jahr 1910 wird dem Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP) eine Vorreiterrolle in der deutschen und internationalen Weinwelt zugeschrieben. 111 Jahre später beweist der Verband einmal mehr, dass dies nicht nur für den Aufbau strenger Qualitätskriterien und einer starken Marke, sondern auch für die Förderung des Nachfolge-Generation gilt. Für die Mitglieder des Verbandes gehört die gleitende Übergabe des Weinguts an den Nachwuchs der Winzerinnen und Winzer seit Jahrzehnten zum natürlichen Betriebslauf. Gleiches leitet der VDP nun für seine Bundesgeschäftsstelle ein. Ab dem 1. Januar 2022 übergibt die langjährige Geschäftsführerin und VDP-Frontfrau Hilke Nagel ihre Tätigkeit an ihre Nachfolgerin Theresa Olkus.

„Aus unserer eigenen Erfahrung in den Weingütern wissen wir, wie wichtig eine vertrauensvolle Übergabe des Betriebes ist. Als Verband leben wir von einer starken Gemeinschaft und dem Zusammenwirken von neuen Ideen und langjährigen Erfahrungen. Hilke Nagel hat mit ihrem unermüdlichen Engagement und ihrer ideenreichen, offenen Persönlichkeit den VDP dank ihrer wertvollen Arbeit über Jahre hinweg geprägt. Sie hat einen herausragenden Anteil an seinem heutigen Stellenwert und wird uns weiterhin unterstützen. Mit Theresa Olkus haben wir das große Glück eine Nachfolgerin gefunden zu haben, die sich in kürzester Zeit bestens eingearbeitet hat, dabei viele neue Akzente setzt und perfekt zu uns passt”, verkündet VDP.Präsident Steffen Christmann die Neuigkeiten aus dem VDP.

schiller-wine - Related Postings

Christian Schiller`s SCHILLER-WINE Blog on Corking Wines` Top 101 Wine Writers of 2020 List 

Christian Stahl, Winzerhof Stahl, Franken, Germany back in the USA - Winemaker Dinner at the Schiller Residence in McLean, Northern Virginia

The Wines of Germany: Presentation by Annette Schiller at the German Embassy in Washington DC/ Consular Conference December 2021

All Sorts of Sparklers: How do the Bubbles get into that Bottle - Presentation by Annette Schiller, ombiasy WineTours, at the 2021 American Wine Society National Conference in Atlantic City

The German Wine Society (Washington DC Chapter) Presented: 2019 German Vintage Tasting with Phil Bernstein of MacArthur Beverages, Washington DC, USA

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

Tasting at Weingut Jos. Jos. Prüm in Bernkastel-Wehlen, Mosel, with Amei Prüm - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling 

The new (VDP) Wine Classification in Germany: Tasting Weingut Robert Weil Wines from Gutswein to Grosse Lage Wine

Attending the 2019 VDP.Weinbörse - Vintage 2018 - in Mainz - Germany-North Tour 2019 by ombiasy WineTours: Quintessential Riesling  

The New Classification of German Wines: The VDP Classification - Annette Schiller Conducting a Seminar at the 2016 National Convention of the American Wine Society in Los Angeles, USA