As early as 1638, the Franconian Fürst family gained recognition for their viticulture in Bürgstadt. A new chapter began in 1979, when Paul and Monika Fürst took over the estate, building today’s winery facilities at the foot of the Centgrafenberg vineyard and expanding the holdings to 21 hectares.
Together with his son Sebastian Fürst, Paul successfully revived the rare and demanding grape variety Frühburgunder (Pinot Madeleine). Their top site, Hundsrück, whose history dates back to the 16th century, produces wines that express cool power, notes of sour cherry and wild rose, and the aristocratic elegance of great Burgundy.
At the heart of the Fürst family’s philosophy is precise, attentive vineyard work. The Centgrafenberg, home to the estate, stands for timeless Pinot Noirs marked by iron-rich minerality, tension, and elegance. These wines have played a key role in the renaissance of German Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), setting new standards in both style and quality.
The Rudolf Fürst estate has received numerous honors: Paul Fürst was named German Winemaker of the Year in 2003, Sebastian in 2018, and in 2020, Paul was awarded a lifetime achievement award. Today, their wines are acclaimed both nationally and internationally and are available in over 30 countries worldwide.