Staatlicher Hofkeller Würzburg
Staatlicher Hofkeller Würzburg
Staatlicher Hofkeller Würzburg is one of the oldest wine estates in Europe, dating back to 1128. The winery is based in the former royal court cellars at the UNESCO listed Residence of the Prince Bishops of Würzburg. Over the years they have held glamorous receptions for statesmen, emperors and kings, a tradition still upheld today.
Hofkeller’s winemaking history is equally rich; the cellars at Hofkeller actually saw the pressing of the world’s first Eiswein in 1835. Traditional methods and the care and attention paid to their vineyards, combined with investment in modern cellar techniques has preserved the distinct character of their wines.
The estate owns the region’s best vineyards, in particular the prized Würzburg Stein. The estate makes delicious wine from Riesling and Silvaner, as well as Müller-Thurgau and Pinot Noir. However, Hofkeller is famed for its Rieslaner, a less well known variety which produces wines with a perfect balance of acidity and earthy fullness.
Franken wines are much sought after due to being dry and full bodied. Now available in the UK is Hofkeller’s award winning Franconia wine, a cuveé of the estates finest grapes giving a dry, easy drinking wine that is a great alternative to chardonnay.
Franconia, £7.99 is available from Liberty Wines (020 7720 5350).