VDP.ESTATE
BÜRGERSPITAL ZUM HL. GEIST

VDP: What is so special about your winery?

Robert Haller: First of all, the full range from VDP.GUTSWEIN to the highest qualities have a consistent mineral style that makes our wines optimal food companions at all levels. Then there is the high level of craftsmanship combined with a vineyard portfolio that is second to none. 80 percent of our predominantly old vineyards are steep slopes; our monopole site STEINHARFE VDP.GROSSE LAGE^® is located within the legendary Würzburger Stein. In spite of our size, we attach great importance to detailed craftsmanship and tradition. Fermentation still takes place to a large extent in the historic oak barrel cellar. We are a founding member of the VDP and currently chair VDP.FRANKEN. Another special feature of our company is, of course, the combination of social activity for older people in Würzburg with the production of the best wines.

VDP: What is your winery philosophy?

Robert Haller: We see ourselves as flag bearers and agents of a centuries-old Franken wine-growing tradition, which has always followed the principles of great craftsmanship and is based on the best, concentrated grape quality. We treat our environment and resources respectfully and vinify our wines in a conscientious way. We emphasise their authenticity and the unique character of the vineyard in which they grow. We do all this in the spirit of the foundation and together as a team in mutual esteem.

VDP: To which wine style do you aspire?

Robert Haller: We see ourselves as terroir specialists for shell limestone. Our goal is to create crystal clear, mineral wines without changing their character or origin. Minerality is more important to us than fruit and sweetness; complexity and finesse more important than opulence. Wines that don't necessarily follow the mainstream, but with their crystal-clear aromas are perfect accompaniments to food – long-distance runners and not muscle men! In the cellar, restraint is the order of the day. Quality comes from the vineyard!

VDP: Which of your wines would you recommend to someone who does not yet know your winery – as an introduction, so to speak?

Robert Haller: If only one can be selected, it would be the Silvaner VDP.ORTSWEIN from Würzburg. A fully ripened, great wine to get to know our winery, our regional identity, the Silvaner grape variety and Franken.

VDP: Of which wine are you particularly proud?

Robert Haller: Of the VDP.ERSTE LAGE® Würzburg Stein Riesling. A wine that is made exclusively from old vines in our prime vineyard. A wine that distinguishes us as a Riesling winery in Franken. A wine with finesse and elegance, which - paired with our Franken Riesling identity, is exemplary and unique to us.

VDP: Why did you become a vintner?

Robert Haller: Out of passion! Special experiences were certainly legendary wines and pleasurable moments in my internship in Tuscany. After that, the course was set.

VDP: What are your next goals?

Robert Haller: My goal is never to be satisfied and to further establish our special “Frankenphile” style on the market. I would like to further perfect the individual terroir variations of shell limestone.

VDP: How do you combine tradition and innovation?

Robert Haller: We do not combine tradition and innovation, we live them. For generations, the Bürgerspital winery has stood for innovation and set an example for the Franken wine region. We have always placed great value on traditional vinification in used wooden barrels and this remains so. Traditional vinification and viticulture with the best know-how, plus the decisions of a young dynamic team – this is our strength.

VDP: Why should people visit your winery?

Robert Haller: Our winery and its impressive and extensive wooden barrel and tank cellars in the middle of Würzburg is always worth a visit. We also have a variety of events, wine festivals, concerts and presentations throughout the year. One should also not forget the Bürgerspital Weinstuben where the culinary offerings range from Franconian delicacies to gourmet cuisine – of course always accompanied by our wines.