Stories

Many people think of Rheinhessen in terms of Riesling, Silvaner, and Spätburgunder. And they’re not wrong, but Rheinhessen is capable of so much more. Christian Spohr refers to the region’s wellspring of options as the “Rheinhessen General Store,” in a thoroughly positive sense.

Although he admits: “Sometimes we envy other regions because they have a clearer profile.” When you think of the Rheingau or the Mosel, you immediately think about Riesling. And when you hear Champagne, Rioja, or Bordeaux, you automatically associate those regions with their classic products.

And then there’s Rheinhessen, with its wealth of choices … would a bit more orientation help us? Should we build up one big star for our region? For us at Weingut Spohr, the answer is: no. We think that it’s precisely our diversity, the many options we offer, that keeps wine drinkers coming. Because they know that will find something to make them smile. From elegantly fruity to finely dry, from red to white, from indigenous to international: Our “General Store” is well stocked, and has something for everyone. Newcomers can explore various styles in the search for their favorite, while connoisseurs will prize the endless choices.

If, for example, you’re a fan of the fruity and elegant, then we have two wonderful wines for you: Scheurebe and Sauvignon blanc, the former a regional variety, the latter internationally known. And both have a story worth learning.

Our Scheurebe grapes are harvested early and raised in steel tanks. The result: moderate alcohol content, fruity-fresh aroma. While we’re at it: Scheurebe isn’t even this grape’s original name. The new crossing was once called “Sämling 88,” or its abbreviation “S88.” It was first cultivated in 1916, but only many years later received a new name in honor of its breeder, Georg Scheu. Hence: Scheurebe.

Sauvignon blanc by contrast is at home in France’s Loire Valley. Unlike in Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, we tend to harvest our grapes a bit later and then ferment the wine in wooden barrels. Why? Because it gives Sauvignon blanc from Spohr a certain creamier, matured taste.

And while we’re on the aroma of these two varieties: their scent inspires us time and time again. So much so that we enjoy blending both these wines with Riesling into a fruity, juicy cuvée with a bit of subtle sweetness. The lion’s share is Riesling, with the charismatic pair of Scheurebe and Sauvignon blanc delivering the fruity kick. The residual sugar produces the kind of irresistible charm that keeps people talking about it long after the glass is empty. That’s why we’ve called this feinherb blend “Sagenhaft” – “Legendary.” Try it for yourself to see if it lives up to that moniker.