"Precision, patience, and personality - that’s what defines a great Mosel wine," says Oliver Haag, winemaker at the legendary Weingut Fritz Haag.
In this English-language episode of Wijn en Wijsheid - The Podcast, we travel to the steep slopes of the Mosel to hear Oliver’s story. Born into one of Germany’s most historic wine families, he shares how he blends heritage and modern thinking to create wines that speak of place, time and tradition.
Fritz Haag was founded in 1605 in the village of Dusemond, now known as Brauneberg. Oliver took over the estate in 2005 together with his wife Jessica, following in the footsteps of his father, Wilhelm Haag. But before returning home, Oliver studied at Geisenheim and gained experience abroad - including an eye-opening period in South Africa.
During this episode, Oliver reflects on his early career, the changing style of Mosel wines, and his winemaking philosophy. He shares his thoughts on wild yeast fermentation, the use of stainless steel and traditional Mosel Fuder, and how global warming has shifted the focus toward drier styles. He also talks about the incredible aging potential of Rieslings, especially Brauneberger Juffer feinherb, which he believes shines after ten years or more.
We also discuss the estate’s recent expansion, including new parcels in Kestener Paulinshofberg and Falkenberg, and the addition of Weissburgunder. Oliver opens up about the balance between the German and international markets, the importance of the US, and how he stays grounded in a world that’s always moving.
Of course, we taste some current releases from Fritz Haag, as well as a beautifully aged Juffer feinherb - proof of what time, terroir and thoughtful winemaking can achieve.
This is an episode about family, responsibility, curiosity and quiet excellence. Oliver doesn’t chase trends. He lets the vineyard speak, with clarity and grace.
This episode is in English so that Oliver can share his story directly with listeners in the Netherlands, Flanders and beyond.
De wijnen zijn te koop bij
