Frankfurt is a busy, cosmopolitan city and yet, a mere 50 km from the city, one can escape to the tranquil Rheingau district, a premium and charming wine region of Germany. It is said to be one of the best wine regions in the world, especially for Rieslings. Well, in our opinion, it certainly is!
If you’re not yet familiar with Riesling, you won’t be disappointed by this quality grape with high acidity and floral aromas. Whether you’re visiting for the day or an entire weekend, it’s the perfect place to start your Riesling adventure.
This idyllic region has more than 3,000 hectares of vineyards, and with 280 wine producers to choose from, you’re certainly spoilt for choice. Four of these local wineries are rated World Class in the Gault Millau 2020, so you can be assured of quality and masterful flavors too. And while you are savoring the unique tastes of Riesling wines, you can explore picturesque castles that are 900 years old, and stroll through cobble-stoned villages with views of the Rhine.
Fun fact: At the beginning of the 19th Century and before the rise of Bordeaux and Burgundy, Riesling wines were some of the most desired wines in the world and were specifically ordered from the Rheingau region by international royalty.
Winery Peter Jakob Kühn
Running as a family business for over 230 years, Peter Jakob Kühn Winery has certainly earned its legacy within Hesse. You’ll likely be welcomed by Peter, a friendly member of the winery, dedicated to his family’s long-standing business.
The products range from dry and fruity Rieslings to Pinot Noir and sparkling wines, so there’s something for every pallet.
If you’re after a wine with a reputation, the Doosberg GG, matured for two years, was rated 19.5 in the 2018 WeinWisser magazine. This delectable wine has strong aromas of ripe apples, apricots, and pear with delicate floral hints to add a fine yet harmonious touch. Once you take the first sip, you won’t be able to resist the intricate aromas that will linger on your palate as you breathe in the sweet Rheingau air.
The Hallgarten Riesling and Hallgarten Hendelberg come highly recommended; they’re both barrel fermented, which reflects in the taste. And the estate Riesling ‘Jakobus’, offers a friendly price – No one complains about a good bargain, after all. With the complex mixture of apple, pear and grapes- both your nose and taste buds will be in for a treat.
Peter Jakob Kühn’s winery has been certified as biodynamic since 2004 – which means all the wines are produced organically. He has also been a member of Demeter, the global biodynamic association since 2009.
Winery Georg Breuer
The winery is located in the charming village of Rüdesheim, which is one of Hessen’s busiest villages during the summer months. Rüdesheim am Rhein is perfect for hiking with a view of the surrounding vineyards as you head towards the Loreley.
Founded in 1880, the Georg Breuer winery primarily grows Riesling. 85% of its Riesling is grown in the Rüdesheim, Rauenthal and Lorch vineyards.
The grape varieties range from 81% Riesling, 10% Pinot Noir, 4% Pinot Gris, 5% Pinot Blanc, Orléans to Heunisch.
I wish to produce wines that make the specific characteristics of their origin visible
Motto of Bernhard Breuer
Gault & Millau 2020, an influential restaurant guide second only to the Michelin Guide, rated the Grand Cru wines from the hills of Rüdesheim – Berg Roseneck (95P), Berg Rottland (94P), Berg Schlossberg (95P) – and the Rauenthal Nonnenberg (95P).
They stand out through their complexity and enormous ageing potential. The individuality of the four wines is characterized by their microclimate and also through geological diversity.
The Raunthal, the local Riesling, can be enjoyed thoroughly with its strong minerality and stone fruit aromas and a hints of fine spice. The aromatic, fruity flavor and floral notes of the barrel fermented 2019 Pinot Gris will also make you tingle with delight.
The Georg Breuer winery portfolio also includes a small range of sparkling wines and various cooperation projects with nearby winegrowers. What was our favorite, you may ask? The Georg Breuer Brut, a unique cuvée from Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, combines delicate fruitiness with spicy acidity to create the perfect blend on the palate.
Conclusion
Best wine overall: Hallgarten Hendelberg Riesling, Peter Jakob Kühn
Best value: Jakobus Riesling, Peter Jakob Kühn
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