Karthäuserhof 'Bruno' Riesling Spätlese, Mosel, Germany 2018

Karthäuserhof is one of the most esteemed estates in the Mosel, with a history dating back to the 14th century. Known for producing exceptional Rieslings from its steep, slate-rich vineyards, the estate focuses on biodynamic farming and minimal intervention in the cellar. Their wines are celebrated for their balance of vibrant acidity, delicate fruit, and complex minerality.

• WINEMAKER: Mathieu Kauffmann

• FARMING: Biodynamic (Certified Biodynamic by Demeter)

• VARIETY: 100% Riesling

• TERROIR: The estate’s vineyards are located in the heart of the Mosel, in the Ruwer, one of the most famous wine-growing regions in Germany. The vines grow on steep, south-facing slopes of blue slate soil, intermixed with iron, which is ideal for capturing the essence of Riesling. The cool climate and prolonged growing season allow for optimal ripening of the grapes while retaining high acidity. 

• VINIFICATION: The 'Bruno' Riesling Spätlese is made from hand-harvested grapes, with fermentation occurring with native yeasts in stainless steel to preserve the freshness and minerality of the fruit. The wine undergoes a slow fermentation process, which enhances its complexity and depth.

• AGING: Aged for several months in stainless steel tanks to maintain purity and fruit expression, with minimal intervention to preserve its natural character.

• TASTING NOTES: The 2018 'Bruno' Riesling Spätlese displays an enticing bouquet of ripe stone fruit, such as peach and apricot, intertwined with notes of honey, citrus zest, and a hint of flinty minerality. On the palate, the wine has a beautiful balance of sweetness and acidity, offering a lush texture and a long, refreshing finish.

• FOOD PAIRINGS: Ideal with spicy Asian cuisine, creamy cheeses such as Brie or Camembert, or a delicate dish like seared scallops with citrus beurre blanc.

• SCORES:

  • Vinous: 94 points

  • Wine Advocate: 92 points
    

From Our 2025 Bottle Cult Notes:

Wine has a funny way of carrying history in every sip, and few places capture that feeling quite like Karthäuserhof. Perched on the steep, slate-covered slopes above the Ruwer River in eastern Germany, this isn’t just an old estate—it’s one of the oldest winegrowing properties in the world, with records of viticulture dating back to 1223! The Carthusian monks took over in the 1300s and farmed these terraces for five centuries before Napoleon’s troops seized and secularized the land. Since 1811, it’s been in the same family, passed through seven generations and surviving everything from shifting empires to modern reunification. Through it all, the name remained: Karthäuser (Carthusian) Hof (farm)—a quiet tribute to its roots.

While the estate is best known for its cellar-worthy, age-defying Rieslings, this bottling—Bruno—is usually their answer to something a bit more immediate. Typically meant to be consumed young and fresh, Karthäuserhof’s Bruno is only made in a dry Kabinett style. But the 2018 vintage brought us something special! That year, a single-parcel Spätlese Riesling, usually destined for a major Russian client, couldn’t be exported due to shifting political sentiments. Instead of letting it sit, the family chose to bottle it as a one-time Bruno Spätlese—a more serious wine at a seriously friendly price.  

Refreshing and electric, the wine has an enticing spicy and floral nose. Aromas of mandarin zest, blooming jasmine, fresh guava, bruised green apple and white pepper give way to a palate bursting with flavor and acidity. Balanced and playful, it has a complex finish of bruised peaches and raw almonds with just a touch of sweetness, which lasts minutes after the last sip, along with mouthwatering acidity. Don’t think too hard —just pair it with Asian food. Of any kind. Seriously.    —Simi Grewal, DECANT co-founder