Weingut Harteneck is located in the village of Schliengen, within the Markgräflerland sub-region of Baden, Germany. This region is situated just across the Rhine from Alsace, France, and is known for its favorable Rhine valley climate and unique terroir, characterized by loess soils, rich in calcium.
Thomas Harteneckt, who took the reins of the family vineyards in 1997, is known for his dedication to organic and biodynamic farming. His estate spans 10 hectares and includes Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris), Chasselas, and Müller-Thurgau. The vines average 25-30 years of age.
Thomas is thoroughly committed to biodynamics, and his estate was the first in Germany to receive Demeter certification. He uses the lunar calendar to guide activities such as planting, pruning, and harvesting, aligning these tasks with the moon’s phases and other cosmic rhythms to enhance vine health and vitality. He employs all the requisite biodynamic preparations like horn manure and horn silica, which are applied following these lunar cycles to support the soil and plant life. Harteneck fosters biodiversity in his vineyards, integrating various plants and herbs among the vine rows to promote a healthy ecosystem that supports local wildlife, including beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
In the cellar, Harteneck adheres to a minimal intervention philosophy. Grapes are handpicked to ensure optimal quality and minimize damage, and they are typically destemmed to maintain purity of fruit and reduce tannic bitterness from stems. Natural fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks over ambient yeasts. The wines are typically aged in stainless steel for several months to over a year, depending on the style and grape variety.
The wines are bottled unfined and unfiltered to retain their natural texture and flavor. Minimal sulfur is used, primarily before bottling, to ensure the wines’ stability and longevity while keeping interventions to a minimum.
