Stephan and Simone Krämer run an organic farm in Auernhofen, a picturesque village that lies south of the river Main. It’s a mixed farm of roughly 70 hectares, with a wide range of vegetables grown alongside cereals, grains and legumes. A short distance away is the Tauber Valley; a natural gem that cradles the river Tauber, with steep slopes perfect for winegrowing. Here in Tauberzell the couple grow four hectares of vines, producing numerous different grapes including Silvaner, Müller Thurgau, Riesling, Bacchus, Johanniter, Schwarzriesling and Regent. The soil is shell limestone and silex – the latter being sedimentary and flint-rich. Stephan and Simone have a deep appreciation for the soil and see organic wine as the ultimate medium for expressing its character, combined with an unwavering sense of place. In Stephan’s words, ‘our main focus is the soil work’. With 30 years of organic farming behind them, the pair are well equipped with experience but still seeking answers for the future. They strive to balance their vineyards by keeping the soil enlivened with various herbs and grasses, inspired by a sense of guardianship for the earth which their vines are rooted in.
This Pétillant Naturel marries 70% Regent with 30% Bacchus, creating a crisp, refreshing wine with good acidity and a light, grapefruit bitterness. Both varieties are direct pressed before fermenting in steel tanks and blended together just a couple of days before bottling. With no disgorgement, the wine retains all its natural yeasts as well as the tartaric acid that naturally results from fermentation. Drink chilled and give a gentle inversion before drinking.