2020 Gau-Weinheim Chardonnay dry Rheinhessen Stumm & Klein 0.75l

2020 Gau-Weinheim Chardonnay dry – Rheinhessen
local wine

Origin:

The young Stumm & Klein project was founded in 2019 by Frank Stumm and Torsten Klein in Gau-Weinheim. The two winemakers share a long-standing friendship and a shared vision: producing the highest-quality Chardonnay from one of Rheinhessen's most limestone-rich vineyards. The vines are located in the Gau-Weinheim Kaisergarten , where limestone marl soils with up to 75% carbonate content and a limestone subsoil ensure tension, minerality, and longevity. With just 0.5 hectares of vineyards and a strictly limited production, this local wine is one of the region's true rarities.

Expansion:

The grapes were hand-picked and gently pressed as whole clusters . Subsequently, spontaneous fermentation took place in used barriques , where the wine matured on the full lees for 15 months . A three-month aging period in stainless steel provided additional precision and balance. The wine was bottled unfiltered , preserving its authenticity and depth.

Aroma & Taste:

The 2020 Gau-Weinheim Chardonnay presents itself concentrated and clear: aromas of ripe pear, yellow apple, and white blossoms on the nose, complemented by brioche, almond, and a hint of smokiness . On the palate, it is creamy and powerful , yet taut and carried by fresh acidity . The combination of 13.4% alcohol, moderate acidity (7.2 g/l), and minimal residual sugar (0.9 g/l) creates a dense, precise structure . The finish is mineral, salty, and long- lasting—a Chardonnay with Burgundian appeal and a Rheinhessen signature.

Food recommendation:

A wine for sophisticated cuisine : ideal with grilled sea bass with lemon butter , poultry in a creamy morel sauce , seafood , or a risotto with porcini mushrooms . It also pairs perfectly with aged Comté or goat cheese .

Special features of the 2020 vintage in Rheinhessen:

The 2020 vintage in Rheinhessen was characterized by heat and drought , which led to stress in many vineyards. However, in the Kaisergarten, the limestone-rich subsoil was able to retain sufficient water, ensuring even ripening . With a yield of only 35 hl/ha and a must weight of 98° Oe, the wine was concentrated with ripe fruit aromas, a cool structure, and precise minerality .

Conclusion:

The 2020 Gau-Weinheim Chardonnay is Stumm & Klein's first Ortswein vintage —and a more than successful start. It combines the power and creaminess of a great Chardonnay with the limestone-influenced freshness and elegance of Rheinhessen . A wine with character, excitement, and great aging potential—and a strong signal that this small winery has big plans.