Birkweiler Keuper Chardonnay

Chardonnay from Keuper soil – in the Southern Palatinate, this means less butter and oak, more tension and mineral depth. This wine from Dr. Wehrheim shows what the grape variety can achieve when the soil is in charge.

The Dr. Wehrheim winery is located in Birkweiler, one of the quiet centers of quality in the Palatinate. The family cultivates vineyards on Keuper – a sandstone-clay mixture that gives white wines a firm structure and a distinctive spiciness. Chardonnay on this soil develops quite differently than on limestone or loess: leaner, more angular, and longer.

The nose initially reveals quince, accompanied by sandalwood and a hint of cardamom – an unusual, slightly oriental spice profile that immediately identifies the wine. Floral notes and a touch of fresh mint add vibrancy. On the palate, a firm, steely body with real power: not opulence, but backbone. Stone fruit, more quince, and a light extract sweetness on the finish, reminiscent of slightly baked yeast cake – well-integrated, never heavy.

Serving temperature: 11–13 °C. Pairs well with sweetbreads with capers, pasta with truffle cream sauce, or strong mountain cheese. Drinking window: now until 2028.