Kartäuserhof

Christoph and Graciela Tyrell, owners of Weingut Karthäuserhof, reside in the top echelons of Mosel wine producers. This estate has been in existence for centuries, and was previously owned by Carthusian monks, following its presentation to them by Prince Balduin of Luxembourg in the 14th century. Since taking control of this historic estate in the 1980s, the Tyrells have brought together the Kronenberg, Orthsberg, Sang and Stirn vineyards into one site, now referred to simply as Karthäuserhofberg. The Karthäuserhofberg vineyard is situated in Eitelsbach, a small village on the Ruwer, near the town of Trier. The vineyard, comprising 19 hectares of predominantly Devon slate, is one of the most highly regarded in Germany, and owned solely by the Tyrells. The vast majority is planted with Riesling, with a small amount of Weissburgunder. The Riesling is grown on disintegrated slate soils which radiate warmth to the vines and act as storage heating, slowly releasing the heat from the day at night. Harvest occurs as late as possible in the season and the Tyrells keep yields low in an effort to produce the highest quality Riesling possible. All wines are produced in the estate’s climate controlled cellars. In the 1980s the traditional “Fuder” barrel was replaced with stainless steel vats to preserve the lively purity of the Riesling and elegance of their Pinot Blancs. The wines are matured slowly, without much interference, guarding its natural minerality, fruit aromas and acidity. Karthauserhof’s wines are well-regarded for their capacity to age.