2023 Mertesdorf Bruderberg Riesling Kabinett VDP.Grosse Lage Weingut Maximin Grünhaus Mosel 0.75l

2023 Mertesdorf Bruderberg Riesling Kabinett VDP.Grosse Lage Weingut Maximin Grünhaus - Mosel/Ruwer
local wine

Origin:

The Maximin Grünhaus winery on the Ruwer River near Mertesdorf is one of the most traditional estates in Germany. As early as 966, the vineyards were transferred to the Benedictine monastery of St. Maximin in Trier. The von Schubert family has managed the estate since the 19th century. The monopoly holdings include the three historic vineyards of Abtsberg, Herrenberg, and Bruderberg . While Abtsberg is famous for its elegance and taut minerality, and Herrenberg produces juicy, spicy, and creamier Rieslings, the Bruderberg, which covers just one hectare , exhibits a completely unique style. Its eastern exposure and cool blue slate soils characterize wines of racy freshness, salty minerality, and distinctive herbal spice , which appear more angular and taut than the wines of its two larger sisters.

Expansion:

The grapes at Bruderberg were hand- picked in 2023 to ensure only healthy grapes were processed despite the challenging conditions. After gentle pressing , spontaneous fermentation with natural yeasts took place in traditional foudres or stainless steel. Fining was omitted to preserve the original terroir character . As is typical for Kabinett, the must was deliberately harvested at a lower must weight to emphasize the lightness and elegance of the wine style.

Aroma & Taste:

The Bruderberg Kabinett 2023 is a clear lemon yellow . The nose reveals green apple, lime, and white currant , accompanied by herbs, white blossoms, and cool slate spice . On the palate, it is vital, racy, and taut , supported by a striking, lively acidity. The clear fruit combines with a distinctive salty note, clearly distinguishing it from the fuller Herrenberg wines and the more refined elegance of the Abtsberg. With a little aeration, a delicate melting sensation harmoniously balances the angular structure. The finish is long, fresh, and herbaceous .

Food recommendation:

Ideal with oysters with fresh lemon , grilled trout with herbs , or Asian appetizers like summer rolls with mint and coriander . A delicately seasoned goat's cheese also pairs perfectly, highlighting the wine's salty minerality.

Special features of the 2023 vintage on the Ruwer:

The 2023 vintage on the Mosel impressively demonstrated Riesling's adaptability to extreme conditions. After a dry and hot June with drought stress and sunburn, heavy rain followed from the end of July, quickly filling the grapes. Ripening developed unusually quickly, with many grapes reaching late-harvest must weights. Nevertheless, the Bruderberg managed to maintain the classic Kabinett lightness with precise acidity and clear fruit . The combination of the cool vineyard and blue slate gave the wine its distinctive, salty, mineral character.

Conclusion:

The Bruderberg Riesling Kabinett 2023 is the most edgy and minerally representative of the three Grünhäuser Kabinetts. It stands out from the nobility of the Abtsberg and the spiciness of the Herrenberg, revealing the wild, herbal, and saline side of the Ruwer . A characterful Kabinett that delights young winemakers with its lively character while remaining a unique expression of Grünhäuser's smallest vineyard site.