VDP.WINERY

FITZ-RITTER

The perfection of traditional values is accomplished through dedication to highest quality standards and the implementation of modern oenological knowledge.

WINE EXPERTISE

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FITZ-RITTER

VDP. FIRST LOCATION

Organic wine (DE-ÖKO-039)

A bird's-eye view of this vineyard (YouTube)

The soil and the grapes:

A healthy soil with diverse soil life allows the vines to thrive optimally. We create this basis by working in harmony with nature. So the decision for us to work according to EU ecological guidelines since 2009 was obvious. The name "Spielberg" dates back to Roman times and was derived from "Spiegelberg". The hill in front of the Palatinate Forest allows a view over the entire Rhine plain. From there, the Romans could see the intrusion of enemies and warn their population with mirror signals or, in bad weather, with smoke signals.

The Spielberg is widely known as one of the best terroir locations of the classic Mittelhaardt. As one of the first wineries in Germany, we have been growing our Chardonnay here since 1992. This is described by the specialist press as one of the most beautiful Chardonnays in the Palatinate (Eichelmann wine guide). Southwest slope, moderately heavy soil interspersed with limestone marl.

Our expansion:

This vintage brought us a harvest of perfectly ripe, golden yellow grapes. In order to preserve the aromas that developed in the grapes during the ripening period, 70% of the fermentation was controlled and cooled in stainless steel. 30% was fermented in new barrique barrels.

Our wine:

Golden yellow colour. The scent of honeydew melon and exotic fruits reflects the ripeness of the grapes. On the palate, the wine is still youthful with hints of yellow, ripe pear and delicate enamel. The minerality from the soil gives this wine an exceptional structure.

Analysis data:

Alcohol: 13.5%

Residual sugar: 3.1 g/l

Acid: 5.8 g/l

VDP. PREDICATE WINERY

As a founding member of the VDP association, focus at Fitz-Ritter is on Riesling from the best vineyards. The wines are predominantly dry and clearly reflect the typical character of each provenance. Full-bodied and spicy, delicate and fine – the wines from each vineyard show great diversity. Sweet predicate wines round off the portfolio. The vineyards provide ideal conditions for the winery to grow Burgundy varieties. Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris vines thrive in limestone-studded clay soil and bring full-bodied, well balanced white wines.

The red wine varietals are predominantly planted in sandy soil. Following open mash fermentation, the wines, in particular the elegant Pinot Noirs, are matured for a term of 15 to 18 months in Barrique barrels made from oak of various origins.

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