Weingut Cantzheim – 2023 Kanzemer Riesling

Weingut Cantzheim – 2023 Kanzemer Riesling.

Our journey takes us to Germany’s Saar, a region often overshadowed by the Mosel yet increasingly recognized for producing some of Europe’s most precise and expressive Rieslings. Here, steep slopes, slate soils and a distinctly cool climate form a natural cradle for the variety. In this setting, Weingut Cantzheim has emerged as one of the new estates bringing fresh dynamism to the Saar. Their 2023 “Der Kanzemer” captures the voice of the region with admirable purity.

About the Winery 

Weingut Cantzheim is a young estate with old roots in ambition. Founded in 2016 by Anna and Stephan Reimann, the couple set out to realize a long-held dream: crafting wines that reflect the unique Saar terroir with clarity and authenticity. Their opportunity began with the purchase of two hectares of vineyards—just enough to begin, but also enough to understand the challenge and reward of working on the Saar’s steep, slate-covered hillsides.

Since their first vintage in 2017, Cantzheim has positioned itself as more than a wine estate. The architecture of the property, situated in the Niederleuken district, blends tradition and modern design, creating a serene yet inspiring environment. The estate hosts cultural events centered around literature and music, giving it an identity that goes beyond viticulture and places it firmly within the creative life of the region.

With their own vinothek on-site, visitors can explore the range in a setting that reflects the estate’s philosophy: precision, purity and a quietly confident stylistic vision. In a region where heritage dominates, Cantzheim has quickly carved out a profile as one of the Saar’s most promising contemporary wineries.

About the Wine

Classified as Ortswein (Village Wine) the 2023 “Der Kanzemer” Riesling is a wine built on tension, clarity, and aromatic finesse—three hallmarks of Saar Riesling. The grapes are sourced from steep vineyards in and around Kanzem, where exposure and slate soils create conditions for slow ripening and remarkable acidity.

The wine opens with a nose consisting of lifted citrus tones—lime zest, grapefruit peel—supported by delicate stone-fruit notes such as white peach and apricot. A thread of cool minerality, reminiscent of wet slate, underlines the aromatic profile and signals the wine’s regional identity immediately.

On the palate, the wine is linear and vibrant, driven by a bright acidity that gives the wine its energetic character. The flavours follow the nose, though the mid-palate introduces a subtle fruit ripeness that softens the edges. A delicate touch of sweetness appears on the finish—never dominant, but adding a gentle roundness that complements the acidity and enhances drinkability. This interplay between freshness and subtle sweetness is a typical hallmark of Saar wines, and “Der Kanzemer” delivers it with balance.

The wine is versatile when it comes to food. Its clean structure and minerality make it a natural fit for grilled fish or shellfish, while its acidity and slight residual sweetness offer a playful counterpoint to spicy or fermented dishes. A pairing with kimchi, for example, highlights both the wine’s aromatic lift and its precision.

Conclusion:

The 2023 “Der Kanzemer” is an approachable and elegant introduction to the Saar’s contemporary style. It offers plenty of charm without losing the linearity and precision that Riesling lovers seek. Whether enjoyed alongside dinner or shared outdoors on a warm afternoon, this wine provides a refreshing and authentic experience that reflects both the terroir and the thoughtful winemaking behind it.

Weingut Cantzheim is a name we will undoubtedly continue to follow. This bottle reinforces the sense that the estate is steadily building a reputation for wines that are honest, expressive and deeply rooted in their landscape. 

We award this wine with a 87-point DWA score. 

This review is written by our own Jorick Wimmers. Weingut Cantzheim and their wines are available through our partner Klosse Wines, and can be bought in their online shop.

Taste Date:     November 2025 

Website:         Weingut Cantzheim