Kleines Kreuz

Hidden amongst the vineyards near Freinsheim stands the Kleines Kreuz. This unassuming wayside cross holds a secret. It whispers tales of the Rings winery. The Kleines Kreuz isn’t just any roadside marker. It’s a silent witness to generations of winemaking. Generations of the Rings family have tended the vines. Their labor has yielded exceptional wines. These wines carry the legacy of the Kleines Kreuz. The grapes used in the renowned ‘Das kleine Kreuz’ wine come from this very area. This isn’t just any wine. It’s the second wine from the prestigious ‘Das Kreuz’. Both wines are crafted from a blend of Merlot St Laurent Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes. They boast a deep ruby red color. Their aromas evoke images of cassis smoke cedar pine needles and leather. The ‘Das kleine Kreuz’ however offers a more approachable taste than its elder sibling. It’s ready to be enjoyed sooner. The ‘Das Kreuz’ needs time. Years even to reveal its full potential. Yet both wines share the same soil. Both are products of the unique terroir surrounding the Kleines Kreuz. The vines bask in the sun’s warmth. The nearby river Neckar provides crucial moisture. The soil composed of Kies and Sand contributes to their strength and structure. The meticulous hand harvesting and selection of grapes are testament to the winemaker’s dedication. The wines mature in French oak barrels for twenty months. Some new some aged adding complexity. The Kleines Kreuz though unseen plays a vital role. It’s the silent guardian of these exceptional wines. A symbol of the heritage and dedication that goes into each bottle. The next time you savor a ‘Das kleine Kreuz’ remember the humble wayside cross. Remember its story. Remember the heart of the Rings family. It’s a story etched in every sip.