PRODUCER: Weingut Carl Koch
REGION: Rheinhessen, Germany
FOUNDER/WINEMAKER: Friedrich Koch, Agustin Novoa
In Rheinhessen, Germany's largest quality wine-producing region, the shift from bulk to boutique has been led by trailblazers like Weingut Carl Koch. Embracing traditional methods with a modern twist, they're at the forefront of crafting quality wines, including their standout Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). Carl Koch's range of elegant, Organic wines are prime examples of the region's renaissance.
WINERY HISTORY
Located near the town of Oppenheim in Germany’s Rheinhessen, Weingut Carl Koch began life as a quinine factory. By 1888, competition in the quinine industry was so intense that Carl Koch – son of founder Friedrich – decided to sell the factory and dedicate the family to its other pursuit: winemaking. Now run by seventh-generation owner Paul Berkes, the Weingut continues to specialise in small-batch production wines grown around Oppenheim. Organic since 2010, the 12ha of vines are planted on loess, clay, and limestone marl across some of the Rheinhessen’s finest sites. With all vineyards planted near the Rhein, perfect aspects and unique micro-climates combine to produce fruit of unsurpassed quality. Specialising in small-batch production, the winery crafts 50,000 bottles annually, primarily from vineyards gracing the slopes above Oppenheim and Dienheim.
VITICULTURE & WINEMAKING
At the beating heart of the winemaking sits Argentine Agustin Novoa, whose mastery of organic farming in Mendoza and cool-climate winemaking in Northern Italy has propelled Carl Koch to new heights. The yields are kept low, the grapes are hand-picked, fermentations are spontaneous, and there is as little intervention in the winery as possible. The whole range has a signature elegance, showing classic varietal and stylistic traits. For example, the Spätburgunder is a wine that does everything a Burgundy does at a fraction of the price. Known for its stellar wines which deliver exceptional value, Carl Koch is renowned for its signature refinement. Displaying distinct personality and expression of terroir, the wines are of remarkable depth and vivacity. The estate is also blessed with a large library of old vintages, small quantities of which are released to us throughout the year.
GRAPE VARIETIES
Riesling, Müller-Thurgau, Silvaner, Pinot Gris (Grauburgunder), Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, St. Laurent, Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), Alcolon
