Franz Keller

Weingut Franz Keller can be found in the Kaiserstuhl in the state of Baden, Germany. Franz Keller is not only well-known in this region, this winery is highly regarded throughout Germany and internationally. Fritz and Friedrich Keller are currently at the helm of the wine estate. In addition to producing wine, the family is in the business of running a hotel, a wine import business, a wine store and three restaurants, one of which has been awarded a Michelin star since 1969. Of all the other Michelin-starred restaurants in Germany, this establishment has been able to keep its Michelin star for a long time, which is quite an achievement.

The work in the vineyard follows the guidelines of organic viticulture. The ground covers are environmentally friendly and maintain the right biodiversity in the vineyard. It is important that the vines can grow as naturally as possible, because the winery stands for authentic and terroir-driven wines. For this reason, gravity is used in the wine cellar. The wines do not need to be pumped over, and this results in more elegant wines.

The main plots are Enselberg, Eichlberg, Im Leh, Kähner Kirchberg and Schlossberg. These vineyards are classified as Grosse Lage of the VDP. The main grape variety is Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), but Chardonnay, Grauburgunder (Pinot gris) and Weissburgunder (Pinot blanc) are also planted.

The GG wines are aged in French oak. The size of the barrel and the aging time depend on the vintage and the cuvée. Pinot Noir, for example, usually matures for 18 months in barriques of 40% new oak. The Pinot Blanc and Pinot Gris age for 12 months in large barrels, and mature further sur lie in stainless steel tanks.

Franz Keller's wines are all of high quality. Consequently, the winery was named Winzer des Jahres (winemaker of the year) by Gault & Millau in 2019. Excellent vintages for Franz Keller wines are 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2019.