The Baltasar Ress winery dates back to 1870 when Baltasar Ress founded the “Gasthof Ress” in Hattenheim. Over four generations, it has evolved into an ecologically operated VDP winery. “Fine shall be the wine” is the motto of the Ress family, who proudly offer a first-class portfolio of Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Noir from the top vineyards of the Rheingau.

When Christian Ress took over the Baltasar Ress winery from his father Stefan in 2010, he developed the idea of completely converting the traditional estate to organic viticulture. The young winemaker had honed his skills at major wineries in Franconia and Bordeaux, but as a responsible individual, only organic farming could satisfy him – for the soil, the environment, the vines, the wine, and the employees. Since 2016, the approximately 45 hectares of the Baltasar Ress winery have been cultivated exclusively according to organic principles. All wines carry the EU organic label.

In the vineyard, Baltasar Ress implements a sophisticated fertilization and compost management system that promotes soil fertility and protects groundwater. A cover crop management strategy ensures biodiversity and vitality. Organic farming relies primarily on self-regulation. Canopy thinning is one of the mechanical tasks carried out in the vineyard. The grapes must be healthy, and “pure shall be the wine” – a principle that was already the motto of the winery’s founder.

In the cellar, the wines are given time to mature. The wines from Baltasar Ress remain on the lees for an exceptionally long time, aging in both stainless steel tanks and wooden barrels. “Our goal is to produce the finest, most characterful, and complex wines,” says Christian Ress.