Rudolf & Rita Trossen

Rita & Rudolf Trossen
Mosel, Germany

Rita and Rudolf Trossen began biodynamic viticulture in 1978 in Kinheim-Kindel in the Mosel region. Back then, Germany raised an amused eyebrow – today they are celebrated worldwide. This pioneering couple cultivate two hectares of vineyards in slate steep slopes, mostly planted with very old, ungrafted vines, in a beautiful and enchanting landscape. Rita was determined that they should run a small-scale operation in order to maintain a high level of quality and care, and to this day the winery functions with a small team and outstanding wines. 

The work in the vineyards is completely manual, with everything based on a deep understanding of nature's cycles, the vitality of the soil and the relationship of man to the environment. They assume an ‘attitude of responsibility that acts locally but thinks globally’.

In the cellar, the wines are fermented long and slowly and stored in traditional, old barrels (Moselfuder). In 2010, the couple’s idea of how wines should taste was challenged by the growing wave of vin naturel from Beaujolais. Encouragement from a group of Danish sommeliers and a passionate Belgian friend led to a wine called Zero Zero: the first wine that Trossen made without any additives or filtrations and the beginning of the Purus line. This riesling was a turning point; the start of a new phase and the beginning of international recognition as a winery. Today, the Purus wines are the signature wines of the small winery. 100% Riesling grape – nothing else. 

These are herbaceous wines which combine liveliness with finesse, and complexity with a beautiful calmness and clarity.