Viticulture

The complexity of wines from the Mosel region is reflected in nature: rugged stone landscapes and extremely steep slopes on the one hand, green hillsides and rolling hills on the other characterise the riverbanks. These perfectly harmonious contrasts are clearly expressed in the delicate Riesling wines. Riesling can taste very different depending on the soil and microclimate. Fruity acids and complex aromas combine to create a culinary delight.

Our vineyards on the banks of the Mosel, Saar and Ruwer rivers form a unique ensemble – a total of 130 hectares spread over 160 parcels. Our 35 individual vineyards in magical locations with evocative names guarantee varied diversity and class. With a passion for natural conditions, we work with great attention to detail and precision in each location. We combine their microclimatic conditions, the special characteristics of their soil and the best grapes individually. Because for us, flavour diversity and quality begin in the vineyard. 

Preserving traditional techniques, sustainable viticulture and respect for nature are our top priorities in the management of our vineyards. As viticulture manager, Stefan Meuren is responsible for the extensive vineyard holdings of the Episcopal Wineries. Together with a team of winegrowers and vineyard workers, he ensures that the work in the vineyard is carried out as gently and sustainably as possible. Traditional, tried-and-tested methods are used alongside the latest viticulture techniques. Much of this is hard work due to the steep slopes of our vineyards. 

‘Our aim is to get the best quality out of every plot and every vintage,’ says Stefan Meuren, who studied at the renowned University of Applied Sciences in Geisenheim. ‘To do this, we have to keep a close eye on our vineyards and constantly monitor the factors that influence each vintage – especially the weather.’ 

The entire oenology team pays particular attention in the weeks leading up to the harvest. In the final ripening phase, all steps are discussed and decisions are made together with cellar master Stefan Kraml. This is the only way to ensure that the potential of the vineyard is reflected in the wine. Our top wines in particular would be inconceivable without strict quality criteria during the harvest. Multiple harvest passes and manual selection (selection by hand) of the different grape qualities are a must for us. 

Different soils and specific microclimates on the river slopes, as well as significant temperature differences between the individual sites, make our vineyard work exciting at every stage. 

Our goal is to produce distinctive, lively wines in the unique cultural landscape of the Mosel, Saar and Ruwer, in which you can read the history of their origin. So that wherever you are in the world, you can share in this culture by enjoying one of our wines.