Kleinbottwar is a pretty little village in the Württemburg wine region of Germany and is known principally for its Riesling wines.

There are three adjoining Grosse Lage-classified vineyards in the area on a southwest- and south-facing hillside to the northeast of the village, on low-yielding, stony Keuper soils. In the middle of the three, Süssmund is one of Württemburg’s most famous vineyards. Its five hectares are planted almost exclusively to Riesling. Next door, the 4-ha Oberer Berg is best known for its Lemberger wines. 20 ha Götzenberg is on the other side of Süssmund.

In mid-April, apple trees were in bloom, sheep were out grazing, birds were singing and the air was warm. People were out waking the well maintained paths through vineyards and watching diving Great Cormorants. Red Kites circled overhead. As shadows lengthened, barbecues were lit, wine uncorked and laughter and music filled the air.

Most importantly, “Bud Break” had started in the vineyards.