Rheinhessen, Germany
Hartmut Bernhard, a winemaker and estate owner, honed his craft through professional experiences in Germany and Austria. Supported by his wife Petra, who holds a German engineering degree in viticulture and enology, they form a formidable team passionate about wine. Their love for travel extends beyond leisure; they eagerly exchange knowledge with fellow winemakers across Germany, Italy, South Africa, and France, fostering a community dedicated to the art of winemaking. Their philosophy revolves around a deep understanding of their terroir, blending its inherent advantages with a steadfast commitment to quality evident in every stage of wine production at their estate.
At their 600-year-old family estate nestled nominally in Hessen but bearing geological similarities to the nearby Nahe region, tradition meets innovation seamlessly. Hartmut Bernhard, drawing upon instinct rather than over-intellectualization, continues a legacy dating back twelve generations. Their history, stemming from ancestors fleeing religious persecution in the Spanish Netherlands, showcases a lineage deeply entrenched in viticulture. Embracing modernization under the guidance of Terry Theise in 1988, the Bernhards diversified their offerings, including the production of Sekt. Today, their son Justus upholds this tradition while embracing innovation, crafting wines that honor their heritage while adapting to evolving tastes and techniques. The estate's dedication to its terroir, meticulous grape selection, and precise winemaking techniques culminate in wines characterized by their fruity, spicy, and full-bodied profiles, a testament to their enduring commitment to quality and excellence.