In Franken, known as Franconia to the outside world, Silvaner reigns supreme. While Riesling dominates the broader German landscape, Franconia and its much-loved Silvaner can seem like the village from the Asterix & Obelix comics. Even the bottle shapes are unique, with many growers still opting for the traditional Bocksbeutel—the one that resembles a Mateus Rosé bottle, though it's important to note that Franken got there first.
Silvaner, or Sylvaner as it’s known in Alsace, often plays second fiddle to Riesling. However, thanks to a growing number of talented winemakers, it is now enjoying its well-deserved moment in the spotlight. One such winemaker is Peter Leipold, or more accurately, the Leipold family, as this is truly a family affair. For the Leipolds, wine is a passion, and so is winemaking. They bring a high level of dedication right where it all begins—in the vineyard. They practice sustainable viticulture, treating soils and living organisms as gently as possible. The key to this approach is handwork: from pruning to harvest, it's all about pure love.
Like the Leipold family themselves, their wines are neither loud nor fast. They need time, and time is what they get. Many of their wines are bottled only two years after the harvest, demanding patience and care.
The results speak for themselves, with fellow winemakers, the press, and consumers taking note. But it's not just Silvaner making waves; Pinot Noir, like in other regions across Germany, is showcasing its remarkable quality and value compared to Burgundy and other great Pinot regions. The Leipolds are no exception, with their exceptional Spätburgunders (Pinot Noir) receiving praise from legends such as Klaus Peter Keller.
“For me, Peter Leipold is on the way to becoming a young genius… He worked for two years here at our winery before leaving for Liger-Belair… What Peter does with Pinot and Silvaner in Franconia reminds me of what Julian Haart is doing in the Mosel… Peter’s wines touch my heart.”
— Klaus Peter Keller
