Christopher (Chris) Barth

is a young winemaker based in Alzey, in the southern part of the Rheinhessenregion, Germany. He is part of a new generation of "natural" winemakers who have moved away from conventional, mass-production styles toward biodynamic and low-intervention viticulture.

Background & Philosophy

• Career Change: Chris originally worked in the IT industry before making a sudden shift to winemaking. After his uncle passed away unexpectedly, Chris decided to take over the family’s small vineyard, later studying enology at the prestigious Geisenheim University.

• Viticulture: He manages approximately 7 hectares of vines, which are Demeter-certified biodynamic. He focuses on the health of the soil and biodiversity, avoiding chemicals in the vineyard.

• Winemaking Style: His wines are known for being "purist" and "unadorned." He typically uses native yeasts, avoids filtration, and adds little to no sulfur. His style is characterized by high energy, crystalline textures, and "laser-focused" acidity.

Terroir & Key Grape Varieties

The vineyards around Alzey are unique due to their geological diversity, which Chris highlights in his cuvées:

• Soil Types: His top wines are influenced by Melaphyr (a volcanic basalt soil from the Paleolithic period) and limestone.

• Varieties: He works with a wide range of grapes, including:

  • Riesling: Often from volcanic soils, providing mineral depth.

  • Silvaner: Often aged on full lees for texture.

  • Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) & Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris): Frequently used for his unique "chilled red" styles.

  • Others: Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc), Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Müller-Thurgau.

Notable Wines

• Riesling Melaphyr: His signature wine, grown on pure volcanic basalt. It is known for its "vibrant depth" and mineral tension.

• Rot vom Grün: A creative blend (often Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris) that is semi-carbonic and designed to be served chilled.

• Zwei Zimmer Küche: A popular, approachable cuvée (the name translates to "Two-Room Kitchen") designed for high drinkability.

• Fluhr: A complex Silvaner from old vines, often aged for extended periods (up to 30 months) on the lees.

Contact Information

• Address: Offenheimer Straße 8, 55232 Alzey, Germany.

• Phone: +49 6731 - 47 14 118

• Email: info@barthwein-alzey.de

• Website: barthwein-alzey.de