Winemaker and estate owner Hartmut Bernhard gained professional expertise in Germany and in Austria. At his side is his wife Petra, she holds a German engineer degree in viticulture and enology.
When travelling they love to exchange expertise with their winemaker friends in Germany, Italy, South Africa and in France, who enjoy life around vines and wine as much as the Bernhard’s themselves.
Philosophy & Consciousness of Quality
We know well the nature of our terroir and combine its advantages with a high consciousness of quality. You will notice this philosophy in all stages of wine production at our estate.
Selecting the Grapes
The favorite microclimate and a consistent control of the yield help us to produce outstanding qualities. Already in spring we cut back the grape vines a first time, and, proceed to second cut in summer when the grapes start to ripen.
By this “green harvest” in August we reduce leaves and remove immature fruit thus allowing the vine to give its full energy into the remaining selected grapes. From September to October we harvest the sound grapes and make a triage in accordance to their quality.
Vineyards and Terroir
Our vineyards benefit from an orientation between south-east and south-west, allowing an ideal sun exposure. In fall, a light mist often floats among the hilly slopes of our area, geologically known as the Mainz Basin, and prevents the grape fields from freezing cold. This microclimate is ideally combined with a high variety of soils around our village. It is this terroir that forms the original character of our fruity, spicy and full-bodied wines.
The Cellar
We continuously strive for great harmony and clear aromatic structure of our wines, starting with intensive clearing, and allowing them to mature in steel, oak or barrique barrels, that we acquire in France.
Press Media and Awards
We are regularly awarded for our wines and sparkling Bernhard Sekt that are often recommended by press media.