As we cling to the hopes of everlasting summer warmth, we can’t ignore the signs nature is presenting of an eventual season change. Leaves that have spent all their energy harvesting sunlight will begin to fade and some will even fall as we know that the cooler months are upon us. And with that, we inch closer to our community’s strong Germanic influences as the flavors of Oktoberfest are on our minds. So raise a glass with these five German wines! 

1. VILLA WOLF 2021 PINOT NOIR ROSÉ 

Villa Wolf is a vineyard in the Pfalz region of Germany founded in 1756 and recently revitalized by our friend Ernst Loosen of the Dr. Loosen estate in the Mosel. The Pfalz is a warm, sunny region that’s often called the “Tuscany of Germany,” so Pinot Noir ripens beautifully here. This rosé is refreshing with its bright berry flavors and dry, vibrant, beautiful mouthfeel making it perfect through the fall months. 

2. DR. LOOSEN 2021 BLUE SLATE RIESLING KABINETT 

Dr. Loosen Estate in the Mosel region has been in Ernst Loosen’s family for over 200 years, and the quality-to-value ratio is hard to beat! Blue slate is the typical soil here and the fruit has a pronounced mineral edge along with fresh, juicy, crisp fruit flavor. It’s extremely food friendly.

3. LEITZ DRAGONSTONE RIESLING 

Hailing from the Rheingau, Johannes Leitz has become a star producer and the Dragonstone from the Rüdesheimer Drachenstein is super good! With its pure quartzite soil, this wine has a salinity that is beautifully aligned with the orange-citrus nuances and great acid balance. Try with our Bavarian-Style Pretzels and a bold mustard. 

4. DÖNNHOFF ESTATE 2021 RIESLING NAHE 

Helmut Dönnhoff is a legend in winemaker circles and the family history of Nahe dates to 1761! This Riesling is vibrant, clean, and elegant with its peach and yellow apple fruits and hint of floral tones wrapped in a touch of baking spice.

5. KRUGER-RUMPF ESTATE 2020 RIESLING NAHE 

Stefan Rumpf and his hospitable family make incredible wine! Dry and fragrant with cherry and floral notes, this wine is extremely food friendly.