Weingut Bergdoll
– Pfalz, Germany
Hannes Bergdoll, a young winemaker from Pfalz in the Southern Palatinate, grew up surrounded by agriculture—a passion passed down through his farming family.
After completing a winemaking apprenticeship, studying viticulture and oenology in Neustadt, and undergoing plenty of experimentation, Hannes released his first vintage in 2016, using only one hectare of vines and producing a mere 5,000 bottles. He recalls this period as a “wild phase of trial and error,” starting in a converted garage and gradually evolving toward a more unified approach in both vineyard and cellar, blending classic and experimental techniques in his work.
Hannes focuses on biodiversity and eco-friendly practices, such as cow horn manure, compost teas, and permaculture. His vineyards are home to Burgundy varieties like Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris, along with Riesling and aromatic grapes such as Scheurebe, Muskateller, and several traditional German varieties (Müller Thurgau, Kerner, and Portugieser). The Palatinate’s sunny climate and diverse soils, including loess, limestone, and red sandstone, contribute to the complexity and minerality of Hannes’ wines.
His popular Pétillant Naturel (Pet Nat) Lotta Loves comes in both rosé and white styles. He continuously experiments with techniques like semi-carbonic maceration and mash-fermentation. His Lau line, which includes Lau Rosa, Lau Grau, and Lau Weiss, is bottled in liter bottles as a nod to his grandfather’s day. “Lau,” meaning “uncomplicated” or “relaxed,” perfectly embodies the laid-back nature of these wines.
