Winery Rebenhof, Johannes Schmitz

The potential for great Riesling lies solely in the vineyard. No wine can rise above its soil, vines and terroir. Our steep slopes at the Ürziger Würzgarten take full advantage of its microclimate. Sun and wind, rain and mist are different in every vineyard. Whether in secluded niches in the rock face or on open slopes, the variation of microclimates is endless. We treat this eco-system with great respect. After all, this is where over the course of the season our Rieslings slowly begin to take shape! You can sum up our philosophy in two words: Healthy grapes.

Micro-organisms and insects, the activities of which are beneficial for vines and soil, are supported, pests and diseases controlled with care, not eliminated at any price. The vines grow in the best locations and are gently nurtured. Yields are kept low to prolong the productivity of the plants. Low yields produce riper grapes and greater quality.

Our vines grow in a naturally fertile soil. Integrated into a harmonious cultural landscape and surrounded by a balanced flora, we afford them the best of care in many steps throughout the season. The greater the diversity of life in our vineyards, the stronger and healthier our vines will be. As the slate continues to weather, it keeps providing minerals for our vines. It is our task to preserve this fertile ground by careful soil management.

At the Rebenhof estate Johannes Schmitz cultivate 7 ha of Riesling, mostly on the steep slopes of the Ürziger Würzgarten. The vines are cared for in accordance with our motto “The vineyard is the be all and end all.” Deliberately reduced yields bring out the full potential of the mostly old and ungrafted Riesling vines. Gentle vinification (selective manual picking, gentle processing of the grapes, slow fermentation with ambient yeasts and time to age) are a matter of course. This way the wine gets to keep what the grapes have provided: concentrated, persistent fruit aromas, pronounced minerals from the red slate and conglomerate soils, such as the red sediment and sandstone so typical of the Würzgarten. Terroir as the synthesis of soil, microclimate, vines and craftsmanship of the grower, brings to the fore an exciting fascination in the glass: Riesling from the Rebenhof!