At Winemakers Review, our dedication to illuminating the intricate stories and practices within winemaking aligns with our commitment to returning the narrative to the growers and creators who craft these unique expressions of terroir. In keeping with this, Episode 10 of our podcast, "Dominik Sona of Koehler-Ruprecht - Pfalz Winegrowing - Lessons in German Wine," delves into the rich tapestry of the Pfalz wine region through the experiences of one of its most dedicated organic winegrowers.
Dominik Sona's journey is a testament to the global and historical depth of winemaking. With experience spanning continents—from working with Ted Lemon at Littorai in the United States to engagements at Burn Cottage in New Zealand and under Ernie Loosen at Villa Wolf in his native Pfalz—Dominik brings a world of winemaking knowledge back to his family's roots in Germany. This episode offers an intimate look at his leadership at Koehler-Ruprecht, one of Pfalz's revered estates, known for its steadfast commitment to traditional, yet innovative, winemaking practices.
At Koehler-Ruprecht, the focus is on dry Riesling, a style that stands out in a region traditionally known for sweeter wines. This choice reflects a broader trend in German winemaking that embraces dry wines while still respecting the rich history of the region. Dominik's approach to winemaking marries the Prädikat system—which classifies wines based on the ripeness of the grapes at harvest—with the "Trocken" designation for dryness. This combination is indicative of Koehler-Ruprecht’s commitment to showcasing the true character of their terroir.
The episode also explores the complexities of the Appellation System in Germany, the challenges of past and current vintages, and the historic significance of Koehler-Ruprecht’s methods and philosophy. Dominik’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of traditional techniques while pushing the boundaries of innovation offers invaluable lessons on the evolution of German wine.
Through our conversation with Dominik, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how place, time, and people influence the creation of exceptional wines, particularly the transcendent Rieslings of Pfalz that so beautifully reflect their origin.
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