Reichsrat von Buhl

A legend from Deidesheim – 175 years of Reichsrat von Buhl

In the heart of the Pfälzer Mittelhaardt, in Deidesheim, lies one of Germany’s most historic wineries: Reichsrat von Buhl. Its history began on 25 August 1849, when Franz Peter Buhl, as part of the division of the estate of the legendary Jordan winery, laid the foundations for his own winery. What began as an inheritance of around 62 Morgen of vineyards developed within a very short time into a world-class commitment to quality . As early as 1869, a Buhl Riesling was served at the opening of the Suez Canal and was, at the time, one of the most expensive wines in the world . Famous figures such as Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy and Imperial Chancellor Bismarck were among its admirers. The name ‘Reichsrat’ was bestowed upon the estate in 1912, when Armand von Buhl was honoured with the title of nobility of the Kingdom of Bavaria for his political work.

Today, the estate comprises around 56 hectares of vineyards, over 50 per cent of which are classified as VDP.Erste Lage or VDP.Grosse Lage. With 72 per cent Riesling, complemented by Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the estate focuses on its quintessential grape variety. The soils are characterised by an impressive diversity – ranging from weathered red sandstone to basalt and limestone. In the eight ‘Große Gewächse’ – including the famous vineyards ‘Ungeheuer’ and ‘Freundstück’, as well as the Deidesheim ‘Kieselberg’ and the Forster ‘Pechstein’ – the terroir expresses its unmistakable mineral elegance.

The winery has been certified organic since 2009 and is increasingly adopting biodynamic practices. Today, Reichsrat von Buhl is run by Monika Schmid and cellar master Simone Frigerio. Under their leadership, the estate produces refined, terroir-driven Rieslings of precise clarity, which are never influenced by passing fashions, as well as sparkling wines that rank among the best in Germany. The winery is a living testament to over 170 years of wine-growing culture – and its legacy is being carried forward day by day with passion and dedication.