Weingut Meyer Nakel

Germany | Ahr Valley

Sustainable Farming

The name of the wine estate goes back to the marriage of grandparents Paula Meyer and Willibald Näkel in 1950. They cultivated an area of just 1.5 hectares, yet were able to make a name for themselves because Willibald’s production of dry red wines represented thoroughly pioneering work at the time.  The Ahr is situated just north of 50˚ latitude, which most people consider to be the boundary for viticulture.

Like many wineries in the Ahr, Meyer-Näkel focuses mainly on Pinot Noir (or as it’s known locally, Spätburgunder). The secret lies in an ideal micro climate found in the Ahr due to special geological conditions. The steep south-facing vineyard slopes are perfectly angled towards the sun, providing additional warmth and sun exposure in one of Germany’s most northerly winegrowing regions. The soil formed from weathered slate and Greywacke warm up easily and are able to store heat. Hence, the grapes grow in an ideal biotope of the narrow Ahr valley that is protected by the Eifel Hills. The unique microclimate is reflected in Meyer-Näkel’s red wines – fruitiness and full body in the foreground, and a slight herbaceousness and minerality on the palate.

Today, the winery is run by 3rd generation Meike and Dörte (with their parents Werner and Claudia Näkel), who have embraced their family’s passion and skill for winemaking, with a fresh take on the River Ahr, Slate and Pinot Noir…