Kerpen wine estate

The Kerpen wine estate in Bernkastel-Kues' magnificent Wehlen district is a prime example of what makes the soul of this Riesling-focused region. It exclusively cultivates this grape variety planted on the surrounding slate hillsides that make up its eight hectares of land (Graacher Himmelreich, Graacher Domprobst, Bernkasteler Bratenhöfchen, Wehlener Sonnenuhr). This is now the eighth generation of the Kerpen family to run the business.

The house itself, an ode to art nouveau, is a classic example of an early 20th century winemaker's villa. It was built between 1907 and 1908 using local materials, with a natural slate cellar and external staircase, and sandstone openings (doors, windows, balcony). The timber framing adds a finishing touch, imbuing everything with typical Middle Moselle charm. In 1986-7, the whole building was fully renovated and a new roof was fitted in 2012.

All the wines mature in a cellar below ground level offering constant, cool temperatures and ideal humidity levels. The Riesling musts eventually tailored to different styles (from dry to sweet) are patiently monitored and procedures are only performed on them when strictly necessary.

In the shade of century-old magnolias, the Riesling-Café is the perfect place to sample these wines with a home-made pastry. The tasting room (2016) accommodates up to 30 people, although if required the old press room can be set up to cater for 80 guests. Visitors can also stay on the estate in a recently refurbished art nouveau apartment.