In the southern part of Baden near the Black Forest, in the charming town of Efringen-Kirchen, along the banks of the majestic Rhine River, you will find the cellar of Weingut Ziereisen. This picturesque region, known as Markgräflerland, is often referred to as the “three country corner,” as it borders Alsace in France and Switzerland’s Basel. Here, the dedicated husband and wife team of Hanspeter and Edel Ziereisen craft exceptional wines that pay homage to their heritage and the pristine terroir they cherish.
At the heart of Ziereisen’s winemaking philosophy lies a deep respect for the land and the belief that “quality is made in the vineyard.” In keeping with this principle, they meticulously tend to their vines, adopting traditional practices passed down through generations. The estate places a strong emphasis on minimal chemical interventions and filtration, allowing their wines to authentically reflect their terroir. It’s a philosophy that aligns closely with the Burgundian approach, aiming to produce wines that, as they say “are not mere sumo wrestlers but decathletes—elegant, robust, and perfectly balanced.”
The unique climatic conditions of Efringen-Kirchen, combined with limestone-rich soils, bear a striking resemblance to Burgundy—a region renowned for Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Chardonnay. The average temperature here mirrors that of Burgundy, nurturing grapes that possess a distinctive character. Organic practices are paramount in the vineyards, even if formal certification is not pursued. The Ziereisen family’s commitment to manual labor is nothing short of exceptional, as they handcraft each step of the winemaking process.
In the cellar, Ziereisen’s commitment to purity and authenticity remains unwavering. Spontaneous fermentation in neutral wood and stainless steel, followed by meticulous sorting, lays the foundation for their exceptional wines. The red wines undergo an extended maceration period before pressing, while the Gutswein reds mature in old wooden barrels, allowing them to evolve gracefully. The single-vineyard Pinot Noirs find their home in a blend of new and used barriques, imparting complexity and character. Allowing the wines to rest on fine lees for extended periods before bottling and shunning filtration, Ziereisen showcases the elegance and depth that come from “controlled idleness.”
In their pursuit of crafting wines that genuinely express their provenance, Weingut Ziereisen stands as a joyous beacon of uncompromising reverence for winemaking. With every bottle of their Pinot Noir, Chasselas, and other varietals, one can taste the story and the artistry of the Ziereisen family.
For more information or any questions especially about the single vineyard wines of Ziereisen please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email at marketing@winegarage.asia