Baden-Württemberg · Deutschland
Roterfaden
A Greek woman, a Swabian, one passion. The Roterfaden estate in Rosswag combines Mediterranean lightness with Württemberg precision. On rare Muschelkalk soils, Olympia Samara and Hannes Hoffmann have been making biodynamic wines on 3.5 hectares since 2014. Spontaneously fermented and unfiltered, their Lembergers have a sovereign clarity and their Rieslings a rebellious character.
Blue Muschelkalk: a Terroir like the French Jura
Hidden in the steep slopes of Rosswag is a geological gem: blue Muschelkalk, of a kind more usually found in the French Jura. Olympia Samara and Hannes Hoffmann immediately recognised the potential of these mineral soils, which give their wines a very particular tension. The old dry-stone walls of the terraces tell of centuries of winegrowing tradition, while the elevation ensures cool nights and perfect acidity levels.
From Geisenheim to Württemberg: an Unusual Partnership
Their paths crossed at the renowned Geisenheim University, where the Greek from Thessaloniki and the Württemberger with farming roots discovered their shared passion. After internships with Austrian biodynamic pioneers such as Claus Preisinger and Dorli Muhr, and stints in France and Italy, they first lived in Montpellier. But the 0.5 hectares belonging to Hannes's grandparents, with old Lemberger and Riesling vines, called them back to Württemberg.Wild Herbs Instead of Machines: Biodynamic Precision
Since its founding in 2014 Roterfaden has worked biodynamically and has been Demeter-certified since 2018. Their regenerative agriculture does entirely without tillage. Instead of heavy machinery they use electric hand mowers, and wild herbs and flower mixes grow in every second row. There is no green harvesting: "it sends the wrong signals to the vines," the couple explain. Instead they rely on early picking to preserve acidity and work with biodynamic preparations made from nettle, chamomile and yarrow. Like their colleagues at Peter Jakob Kühn, they place their full trust in Demeter principles.