Van Volxem is a prominent winery located in the Saar Valley, a renowned wine region in Germany particularly famous for its Riesling wines. Established in 2002 by Roman Niewodniczanski, Van Volxem is situated on the historic estate of a former Jesuit monastery and draws from vineyard sites that have been recognized for their quality since Roman times. The winery focuses on producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Saar, emphasizing minerality, precision, and freshness.
**Philosophy and Practices:**
Van Volxem adheres to a philosophy that prioritizes organic and sustainable vineyard practices, aiming to preserve the natural ecosystem and biodiversity of their vineyards. The winery operates under the principle that great wines are made in the vineyard, with minimal intervention in the cellar. This approach involves using natural yeast fermentations and avoiding additives to allow the natural character of the wine to shine through.
**Vineyards and Terroir:**
The vineyards of Van Volxem are planted primarily with Riesling, along with smaller amounts of other varietals such as Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc) and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). These vineyards are located on steep slopes along the banks of the Saar River, with soils composed predominantly of slate. This slate is critical in retaining heat and aiding the ripening of grapes in this cooler climate, contributing to the signature mineral-driven profile of the wines.
**Wine Styles:**
Van Volxem produces a range of wines, but it is best known for its dry Rieslings, which are highly regarded for their intensity, complexity, and longevity. These wines typically exhibit a crisp acidity balanced with stone fruit flavors, and a distinct minerality that is a hallmark of Saar Rieslings. In addition to dry Rieslings, Van Volxem also produces off-dry and sweet styles, showcasing the versatility of Riesling grapes grown in this region.
**Recognition:**
Under the leadership of Roman Niewodniczanski, Van Volxem has received considerable acclaim for revitalizing the wine production of the Saar region and for producing some of the area's most outstanding wines. The winery is a key player in demonstrating the potential of the Saar as a world-class wine region, especially for Riesling enthusiasts.
Overall, Van Volxem stands out as a winery committed to expressing the distinct characteristics of the Saar Valley's terroir, producing wines that are both reflective of the region's winemaking heritage and appealing to modern palates.
