At first glance, the steep slopes of Germany’s Mosel Valley and the rolling hills surrounding New York’s Keuka Lake might seem worlds apart. But for winemaker Hans Peter Weis, the two are deeply connected — both defined by slate soils, cool climates, and a belief that great wine comes from respect for the land.

Born and raised in Zell, Germany, Hans Peter grew up in his family’s winery, learning early the rhythms of vineyard work and the precision of cellar craft. After earning his degree in Winemaking, Business, and Agriculture, he set out to explore the world’s wine regions — a journey that would eventually take him across the Atlantic to the Finger Lakes.

There, Hans Peter found a place that felt instantly familiar: crystalline lakes moderating the climate, slopes of shale and gravel, and a growing community devoted to cool-climate varieties. After several years working in local wineries, he founded Weis Vineyards with his wife, Ashlee, bringing German know-how and sensibility to the New York wine landscape.

Today, Weis Vineyards is celebrated for its elegant, expressive Rieslings, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Noir, wines that combine precision with approachability. Hans Peter’s philosophy is simple — let the vineyard speak, guide it with care, and never lose the curiosity that brought him here in the first place.

In many ways, Weis embodies the bridge between Old and New Worlds: a meeting of Mosel tradition and Finger Lakes innovation. The result is a collection of wines that are both rooted and adventurous — crafted with heart, heritage, and a deep respect for place.