Dr. Wehrheim in Birkweiler is one of those high-profile estates in the southern Pfalz. Karl-Heinz Wehrheim is also very active in the VDP, does the marketing for the Pfalz, has many other activities and he is one of the trendsetters in the southern Pfalz. When in the eighties the Pfalz was loosing territory the young Karl-Heinz Wehrheim was one of the initiators, together with four other estates, to work together, share experiences, and to evaluate each wine to improve the quality. The result of this initiative was that soon, the Pfalz producer of cheap bulk wine of low quality, transformed into a wine region with many excellent wines. Wehrheim companions of the early days are the now famous vineyards such as Becker, Kessler, Rebholz and Siegrist. Cooperation, not competition, open exchange of experience and internal criticism has ensured the success of these companies and are a stimulus for the entire Pfalz.

Family business
The family business, now run by the third generation Wehrheim, produces nearly 14 acres classic dry wines. Major grape varieties are Riesling (currently 45% of the area), Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay (together 25%), Pinot Noir (12%) and St. Laurent (3%). In addition they grow, small amounts of Sylvaner, Gewurztraminer and Muscat. Ideal lagers like Kastaniënbusch and Mandelberg, great care of the vineyards, modern production techniques and last but not least, deep knowledge and passion ensure that Dr. Wehrheim produces year in and year out fine wines. In the Pfalz Dr. Wehrheim is almost unparalleled in Burgunder varieties and Chardonnay. The Weissburgunders has been in the top 3 for years in Germany. Gault Millau share frequent high ratings to the wines of Dr. Wehrheim. In 2011, 22 wines are rated between 83 and 95 points.

Smooth red wine
A visit to the estate of Dr. Wehrheim is a pleasure. You will be warmly welcomed by these modest and hardworking people. In the tasting room they take the time for you to taste the delicious wines. I did purchase several Pinot Bianco’s, Chardonnays and Saint Laurents. All are delicious wines. At first Saint Laurent was a harsh, tannin wine. But after a few years, the Saint Laurent turned into a delicious smooth red wine. An excellent companion to red meat. Several times a year they send you the events of Wehrheim. Each message contains a photograph of Kerl-Heinz Wehrheim and his family, the hallmark of the company. Always nice to read this post. It prompts me again to visit the Wehrheim family. The wines, produced by this family, make very visit to a feast. You will never drive home empty.