Drei Dörfer Chardonnay 2022

Wine description for Drei Dörfer Chardonnay 2022 from Franz Keller

The Three villages Chardonnay 2022 epitomises the quiet revolution taking place in Baden, where winemakers like Franz Keller are redefining the boundaries of German white wines. This wine is an expression of the Kaiserstuhl - that volcanic elevation that rises from the Rhine Valley and whose loess and volcanic soils give the wines an unmistakable mineral signature.

Terroir and origin

As the name suggests, this Chardonnay combines grapes from three villages in the Baden wine landscape. The mild climate of Baden - often referred to as Germany's Tuscany - offers ideal conditions for the Chardonnay grape, which achieves a perfect balance between ripeness and acidity structure. Franz Keller, an advocate of terroir-orientated viticulture, works with a careful hand to capture the characteristics of these different sites.

Nose

On the nose, the wine presents itself with a precise composition of green apple, pear and subtle citrus notes. Behind this, subtle hints of white flowers and a restrained but striking mineral note reminiscent of damp limestone unfold - a fingerprint of the Baden terroir.

Palate

On the palate, the Characteristic tension of a coolly interpreted Chardonnay. With a moderate 12.5% alcohol and minimal residual sweetness, the wine retains a remarkable freshness and precision. The fruit flavours of apple and citrus are supported by a lively acidity structure, while subtle notes of hazelnut and a fine salty minerality increase the complexity. The medium body and elegant texture speak in favour of restrained ageing that focuses on the fruit and terroir.

Traditional craftsmanship

Franz Keller is one of those German winemakers who have dedicated themselves to precision. This Chardonnay reflects a philosophy that neither follows the international style with its lavish use of wood nor an exaggerated slenderness. Instead, he finds his own way that emphasises the authenticity of the region.

Food pairing suggestions

This wine unfolds its full potential with Light-coloured poultry with herbs, freshwater fish from the Rhine or classic Baden dishes like tarte flambée with crème fraîche. Its versatility also allows it to be paired with light Asian dishes, whose spiciness elegantly emphasises the fruity components of the wine.